url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=bdd9efe5-7223-4549-85c9-e654551dbbaa,Risch Announces Military Academy Nominations,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,www.risch.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Jim Risch has announced his nominations to the United States Military Academies for the 2014 year. The nominees were selected from dozens of applicants and will now be considered by each of the four academies for appointment. ""This year's nominees have met the high standards required to attend our military academies and each of them have demonstrated a level of commitment to our nation that is commendable. They are each truly deserving of this honor and I applaud them for their efforts,"" said Risch. Those interested in applying for future nominations to the military academies can find details on Senator Risch’s website or by contacting Tim Petersen at (208) 342-7985. U.S. Air Force Academy Carlie Ashley, Meridian Benjamin Beier, Kingston Gabriel Benavides, Meridian Scott Bennett, Boise Austin Box, Boise Devin Cooper, Mountain Home Hunter Cyr, Eagle Rydder Driggs, Ammon Anderson Gannaway, Rexburg Lindsey Hammon, Meridian Tyler Hill, Boise Alexandria Kempf, Pocatello Jesse Miller, Laclede Joshua Rackham, Meridian Wes Roscoe, Mackay Braxton Stocking, Rexburg Tanner Stuart, Pocatello Timothy Ward, Meridian Daniel Whitfield, Eagle Justin Williams, Bancroft U.S. Naval Academy Nicholas Blancett, Star Justus Grammer, Coeur d’Alene Katey McInturff, Cataldo Tyrell Reynolds, Kuna John Schneider, Boise Quinn Shultz, Eagle McKenzie Steingruber, Meridian Kathleen Thompson, Meridian Alexander Tracy, Nampa Ryan Walker, Eagle U.S. Military Academy at West Point Randy Foristiere, Boise Garrett Plant, Meridian Spencer Rich, Meridian Alix Stanley, McCall Steven Schneickert, Pocatello Hannah Wentland, Meridian Jonathan Yake, Coeur d’Alene Andrew Young, Meridian Thomas Zagula, Rigby James Zimmerman, Boise U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Avian Blumhorst, Idaho Falls Nicholas Bower, Meridian Reilly Cherry, Coeur d’Alene Isaac Christensen, Coeur d’Alene       Victoria Nash, Homedale Justin Peters, Boise Joshua Rackham, Meridian Quinn Shultz, Eagle Bryce Schroeder, Caldwell Jonathan Yake, Coeur d’Alene ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=357658,Crapo Demands Answers from IRS on Civil Forfeitures,2014-12-17,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 17, 2014 Crapo Demands Answers from IRS on Civil Forfeitures Says investigations could negatively impact law-abiding taxpayers Washington, D.C. - Idaho Senator Mike Crapo is asking the U.S. Department of Treasury for information on IRS seizure and forfeiture activities of legitimate small business accounts.  The IRS cites a law under the Bank Secrecy Act used to identify drug traffickers, racketeers and terrorists by tracking cash deposits under $10,000, a practice known as ""structuring,"" but sometimes the IRS captures efforts at legitimate, cash-only operating small businesses.  Recent news reports have detailed instances in which the IRS seized bank accounts of legitimate small businesses on suspicion of money laundering without proof of guilt.  Crapo, the Ranking Member of the Senate Banking Committee, today sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Jack Lew demanding answers from the federal government on this practice. ""I am concerned with the impact these IRS civil forfeitures will have on law-abiding American taxpayers,"" Crapo said. ""By some accounts, the seizure and forfeiture procedures used to preserve assets during the course of an investigation can deny taxpayers use of legitimate assets for up to two years."" He continued, ""While penalties for structuring transactions are an important deterrent in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing, it is absolutely imperative that investigators understand the law and proper procedures that are in place and used to protect otherwise legitimate businesses in their day to day activities."" Many small, legitimate cash-only businesses frequently make cash deposits in amounts less than $10,000, and some have become targets of the IRS.  Most victims of civil asset forfeiture settle with the government for only a small portion of what was seized from them, and some are not able to challenge the federal government for up to a year or more.     Full text of the letter is below. Click here to view online. __________________________________________________________________ The Honorable Jacob Lew Secretary U.S. Department of the Treasury 1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, D.C. 20220   Dear Secretary Lew: I write to express concern with how the IRS reportedly pursues, seizes and forfeits assets, particularly small business bank accounts of law-abiding Americans depositing cash receipts in the course of routine business operations and without connection to any overt criminal act.  I direct your attention specifically to the pages of the Washington Post, New York Times and Idaho Statesmen, which all have reported recently on IRS seizure and forfeiture activities of otherwise legitimate small business accounts in connection with the federal ""anti-structuring"" requirements of 31 U.S.C. § 5324. That IRS has spent the better part of a year on establishing the new policy, announced on October 17, 2014, to address what it calls ""legal source"" structuring, demonstrates the IRS has been aware for some time of problems with such investigations as a general law enforcement matter.  Apparently, the main concerns for IRS were consistency of case management and undue hardship on IRS manpower issues, which draws vital resources away from the key priorities of the IRS Criminal Investigations Division. More than IRS manpower issues, I am concerned with the impact that these legally-sourced structuring investigations may have on law-abiding American taxpayers, particularly when the seizure and forfeiture procedures used to preserve assets during the course of investigation may turn out to deny taxpayers use of legitimate assets for up to two years, by some accounts. Moreover, I am concerned with the proper and efficient administration of Bank Secrecy Act implementation and enforcement, of which structuring violations form an integral part.  While penalties for structuring transactions are an important deterrent in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing, it is absolutely imperative that investigators understand the law and proper procedures that are in place and used to protect otherwise legitimate businessmen in their day to day activities. Accordingly, in light of the new IRS policy, together with the reports of alleged abuses connected to structuring violations, I ask that you provide me the following information: 1.    What fund holds the assets seized and forfeited by the IRS generally and that specifically related to structuring crimes?  Does the IRS share these funds with local law enforcement or any other agency? 2.    What types and threshold amount of evidence was required by IRS under the old policy before IRS seized a bank account?  What kind of evidence is required now, under the new October 17 th policy? 3.    How often and how long were assets seized or forfeited under suspicion of structuring only to never see a structuring case prosecuted? 4.    When was work begun on the new policy? Were seizures of legal sourced funds, unconnected to a second crime, suspended during this time period? 5.    Did the new policy guideline go through interagency review? 6.    What effect does IRS expect the new guideline to have on taxpayers?  On law enforcement efforts? 7.    What qualifications are required for state and local law enforcement officers to participate on IRS task forces or Suspicious Activity Review (SAR) review teams and what training is provided? 8.    How often did IRS discover that either federal or affiliated state and local law enforcement authorities interpreted 31 U.S.C. § 5324 to mean that multiple or serial sub-$10 thousand deposits without more were acts of structuring and grounds for seizure? 9.    Does IRS believe that this anti-structuring guideline should be implemented across all law enforcement agencies, nationwide?  Why or why not? 10.Will the guideline lead to consistency of nationwide investigations or lead to uneven application of the structuring law depending on the investigating agency? Please provide my office with all responsive information by January 19, 2015. Thank you for your cooperation.   Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=357654,Crapo Announces Committee Posts for 114th Congress,2014-12-16,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 16, 2014 Crapo Announces Committee Posts for 114th Congress Will remain a senior member of the Finance Committee, Banking Committee Washington, D.C. - After wrapping up work with incoming Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky) on the Senate Republican Committee on Committees, Idaho Senator Mike Crapo today announced his committee assignments for the 114 th Congress.  Crapo will retain his committee posts from the previous Congress, serving on the following committees: Senate Finance Committee, Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, Senate Budget Committee, Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, and the SenateCommittee on Indian Affairs.  The 114 th Congress will also mark a move in seniority for the Idaho Senator, who will now be ranked 22 nd in overall seniority-the highest seniority an Idaho Senator has attained since Senator McClure was ranked 17 th in the 101 st Congress. Crapo, who has long been a strong advocate of reforming our nation's broken tax code, is looking forward to returning as the third ranking Republican on the powerful Finance Committee, which oversees many issues of daily importance to all Idahoans, including taxes, Social Security, trade policy and certain health care programs (Medicare, Medicaid), among others. ""Our tax code is far too big, complex and anti-competitive to serve as the foundation for the economic growth our country needs,"" said Crapo.  ""The more than $1.5 trillion in tax increases placed on middle class families in recent years have made the burden of our current code worse and have hindered, rather than fueled, economic growth."" The Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, on which Craposerved as Ranking Member in the 113 th Congress,maintains jurisdiction over efforts to promote the stability of the financial system, promote responsible lending to families and businesses, preserve homeownership and authorize federal transit spending. Crapo will now serve as the second rankingRepublican on the Committee. ""In our current economic climate, my continued focus on the Committee will be to protect taxpayers and stop irresponsible taxpayer funded bailouts, as well as modernize our financial regulatory structure and its goals,"" Crapo continued. Crapo will reprise his role on the Indian Affairs Committee in the new Congress, where he expects to advocate directly for the substantial Native American population in Idaho.  ""Serving on the Committee on Indian Affairs gives me the opportunity to work closely with the Tribes in Idaho to ensure that needed changes in critical areas such as education, economic development, land management, health care and others are met."" The Idaho senator, who previously served on the President's Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform and was a part of the Senate's ""Gang of Six"", seeking bipartisan answers on debt reduction, will also return to the Senate Budget Committee for the 114 th Congress.  The Committee remains responsible for drafting and monitoring Congress' annual budget.  ""With our nation's debt now exceeding a staggering $18 trillion, it is imperative that Congress put forth an annual budget-something that has gone by the wayside in recent years.  Strong budget controls to curb the explosive level of federal spending are needed, and I look forward to working with my colleagues this coming Congress to find meaningful ways to develop balanced budgets that will lead us to begin paying down our debt."" Finally, Crapo will continue service on the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee with jurisdiction over environmental laws, water issues, fisheries, highway funding, wildlife and other issues.  Among other federal agencies, the Committee is charged with overseeing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  ""Without question, EPW deals with some of the most important natural resource issues facing Idaho.  From stopping EPA's aggressive overreach into the lives of Idahoans to ensuring that rural areas are fairly considered for highway funding, it is clear Congress is confronted with significant challenges.  I am encouraged by the opportunity in this new Congress to advance the interests of Idahoans and promote sensible and effective environmental policies that don't jeopardize the economy and small businesses,"" Crapo concluded.   Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=934,"LABRADOR GRAZING, GUN RANGE BILLS HEAD TO PRESIDENT",2014-12-15,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FOR MORE INFORMATION: Friday | December 12, 2014 Dan Popkey – 208-800-1565   LABRADOR GRAZING, GUN RANGE BILLS HEAD TO PRESIDENT The two measures – one local, one national – clear the Senate WASHINGTON, D.C. – Two bills introduced by Rep. Raúl Labrador, R-Idaho, offering regulatory relief in federal land management are expected to become law after final passage in the Senate Friday. The Grazing Improvement Act, which Labrador has been working on since he came to Congress in 2011, will provide stability for about 20,000 ranchers who lease grazing rights on more than 250 million acres of federal land.  Introduced as H.R. 657, the grazing reform bill would temporarily extend permits while the Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service process a backlog of environmental reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act. It also allows the agencies to issue permits and leases under categorical exclusions from NEPA if they continue current management and grazing is not adversely affecting land health. Finally, the bill permanently exempts livestock trailing from full NEPA review.  Ranchers with grazing permits own nearly 120 million acres of nearby lands, making the collaborative management critical to rural economies. More stable business conditions will prompt investment in improvements such as stock ponds that benefit livestock and wildlife. The Idaho County Shooting Range Land Conveyance Act would establish the first public shooting range in the state’s largest county by conveying 31 acres of BLM land to Idaho County. Introduced as H.R. 5040, Labrador’s bill was necessary because federal regulations blocked the transfer of the parcel used informally as a gun range by sportsmen and women. The bill has the BLM’s support and the County Commission has agreed to manage the site as a shooting range and work closely with law enforcement on maintenance.   “The Idaho County gun range bill resolves a local issue that has been pending for close to six years,” Labrador said. “I am just as gratified to see it pass as I am the grazing reform that will boost economic certainty for ranchers across the West. Both measures are examples of how Congress can act to better manage public resources.” Unfortunately, the measures were attached in the House to the National Defense Authorization Act, or NDAA, in the closing days of the 113th Congress.  The NDAA was totally unrelated to the substance of Labrador’s bills, which had previously passed with bipartisan support. Labrador voted against the defense bill because he continues to object to the NDAA on both foreign policy and civil liberties grounds. He opposes the NDAA's authorization of $1.6 billion to arm and train Syrian rebels and continues to have concerns about the indefinite detention of U.S. citizens suspected of terrorism.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=933,LABRADOR ISSUES STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF MASSIVE YEAR-END SPENDING BILL,2014-12-12,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FOR MORE INFORMATION: Thursday | December 11, 2014 Dan Popkey – 208-800-1565 LABRADOR ISSUES STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF MASSIVE YEAR-END SPENDING BILL WASHINGTON, D.C. – First District Congressman Raúl Labrador, R-Idaho, issued the following statement after voting against the fiscal year 2015 catch-all appropriations bill that raises spending to $1.1 trillion, up $88 billion from fiscal year 2014 levels: “Once again, Congress has failed to take seriously its responsibility to squarely address the federal spending crisis. The last two days have been particularly outrageous with the process driven by a handful of people behind closed doors. The result is a 1,603-page bill larded with pork and favors for special interests. The funding bill also fails to address the president’s unconstitutional immigration order. “I promised Idahoans I would do everything in my power to stem the growth of our now-$18 trillion debt, which Congress refuses to do.  Next year, with both the House and Senate in Republican hands, my sincere hope is we quit stalling and enact meaningful spending reforms.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398376,Simpsons Newborn Screening Bill Passes Congress and Heads to Presidents Desk,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"The House of Representatives has unanimously passed the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act, co-authored by Congressman Mike Simpson and Congresswoman Lucile Roybal-Allard (CA).  The bill will reauthorize newborn screening programs for five years while updating and building upon the landmark 2008 Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act first offered by Simpson and Roybal-Allard. “I am pleased to see the House pass the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act and send it to the President for his signature,” said Congressman Simpson. “I am so grateful to Congresswoman Roybal-Allard for her dedication to this issue.  She has truly led the way in making this bill a reality.” “I have repeatedly said that this bill is as important as any we will pass this year,” Simpson continued. “These crucial screening tests detect conditions that are too often undetected at birth and if left untreated can cause disability, developmental delay, illness, or even death.  Conditions quickly identified lead to better outcomes and saved lives, often at a reduced cost. ” Congresswoman Roybal-Allard added, “Our collective efforts to rapidly identify and treat these disorders are making a difference between health and disability, and even life and death, for the children affected by these severe diseases.” Newborn screening is run by individual states, but the original 2008 Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act first encouraged states to uniformly test for a recommended set of disorders, and provided resources for individual states to grow their own screening programs.   Before that legislation, state screening varied greatly, with only 10 states requiring infants to be screened for all the treatable “core conditions” recommended.  Today, most states require screening for at least 29 of the 31 core conditions. The test consists of a simple prick on the heel of newborns before they leave the hospital.  That blood sample tests for serious genetic, metabolic, or hearing disorders that may not be apparent at birth.  Without the test, parents may have no way of knowing their child needs treatment. “Newborn screening represents a major public health success story that has preserved the lives and health of tens of thousands of newborns,” stated March of Dimes President Dr. Jennifer L. Howse.  “The March of Dimes is deeply grateful to Rep. Mike Simpson for being a tireless champion of the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act.  With this legislation, we have ensured that the over 20,000 babies born in Idaho each year will continue to receive potentially life-saving newborn screening tests.” “Besides the obvious benefit to families who suffer an enormous emotional and economic burden when a one of these conditions goes undiagnosed for too long, this legislation is a powerful tool for savings in our already overburdened health care system,” added Simpson. “As a former dentist, I have seen the value of diagnosing and treating a condition early in a child’s life, and this bill will help strengthen newborn screening across the country.” One example is found in a 2012 study on severe combined immunodeficiency, known as SCID, which is one of the 31 core conditions recommended for state screening.  The Medicaid cost of treating a baby with SCID in the first two years can be $2 million dollars or more.  Yet an infant diagnosed early can be cured through a bone marrow transplant in the first three months of life, costing $100,000. The amended bill already passed in the Senate, and now with House passage heads to the President’s desk for a signature.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=15c6de61-d52b-4d0f-a3ff-221b51f2725e,"Risch, Crapo Say Energy Costs Could Soar Under EPA Power Plan",2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,www.risch.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.—Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch joined Senator Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska) and 20 of their Republican colleagues to express deep concern about the impact the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed power plan would have on electricity prices and power grid reliability.  In a letter to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy, the senators call for the rule’s withdrawal, citing unrealistic interim targets, a severely constrained timeline for implementation and complications related to multi-state resources among the many concerns raised by stakeholders. “Our nation’s families and businesses depend upon affordable, reliable electricity. Unfortunately, EPA’s proposal will constrain Americans’ energy choices and inflict significant economic harm without producing any tangible environmental benefits,” the senators write in the letter. Joining Crapo, Risch and Fischer on the letter are: Lamar Alexander (R-Tennessee); John Boozman (R-Arkansas.); Richard Burr (R-North Carolina); Saxby Chambliss (R-Georgia); Dan Coats (R-Indiana); Thad Cochran (R-Mississippi); John Cornyn (R-Texas); Jeff Flake (R-Arizona); Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina); Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa); John Hoeven (R-North Dakota); Johnny Isakson (R-Georgia); Mike Johanns (R-Nebraska); John McCain (R-Arizona); Jerry Moran (R-Kansas); Rob Portman (R-Ohio); Pat Roberts (R-Kansas); Richard Shelby (R-Alabama); John Thune (R-South Dakota); and Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi). Full text of the letter is available below: December 10, 2014   The Honorable Gina McCarthy Administrator Environmental Protection Agency U.S. EPA Headquarters – William J. Clinton Building 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20460 Dear Administrator McCarthy, We write to express serious concern regarding EPA’s proposed existing source performance standards (ESPS) under Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act and to identify some key issues that must be addressed in any final rule.  As proposed, the rule would have sweeping impacts that would not only raise Americans’ electricity prices, but also jeopardize the reliability of our nation’s power grid.  Among the biggest problems with the rule are the unrealistic interim targets, severely constrained timeline for implementation, and the complications related to multi-state resources. First, as both state environmental agencies and industry stakeholders have pointed out, the emission rate targets are front-loaded, requiring a disproportionate percentage of emission rate reductions in the early years of the program.  These unrealistic reduction rates do not account for the time needed to accommodate the infrastructure changes needed to achieve them.  Development of new generation and transmission resources takes time.  Planning, design, siting, permitting, and construction can easily take as long as a decade.  Comparing the interim emission rate reduction in 2020 (from the 2012 baseline) to the final emission rate reduction required by 2030, total emission rate reductions that must occur between  the 2012 baseline and the 2020 emission rate target reach as high as 90%.  The median reduction level is 66% for all states during that timeframe.  Under EPA’s second building block— prematurely shutting down coal-fired generation in favor of natural gas combined cycle generation, EPA’s emission rate formula results in a 100% decrease in coal generation by 2020 in some states.  Furthermore, this premature shutdown of coal fired generation will pose serious reliability risks to the electric grid and result in billions of dollars in stranded investment in expensive pollution control equipment that has been installed in order to comply with recent EPA regulations.   For these reasons, we urge the elimination of the 2020 targets. Second, states have very little time to prepare and submit implementation plans—13 months from the time EPA issues a final rule with a possibility of a one-year extension for individual state plans or two-year extension for multi-state plans.  This is simply not enough time for states to plan and prepare for such significant changes to their electricity generating portfolio, let alone address “beyond-the-fence” energy efficiency programs.  Moreover, regional transmission operators must have time to evaluate and provide feedback on the state plans to address impacts on regional markets and ensure power reliability.  As outlined in its 2014 Initial Reliability Review of EPA’s Proposed Clean Power Plan, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation also needs time to assess resource adequacy and long-term reliability of the North American bulk power system.  A third fundamental issue to be resolved is how EPA will account for electricity resources generated in one state but used in another.  While EPA has promulgated state-based reduction targets, our electricity system is interconnected with many cross-state purchase agreements.  EPA’s current proposal fails to establish a workable regulatory framework for addressing these complicated, but critically important multi state issues.  Our nation’s families and businesses depend upon affordable, reliable electricity.  Unfortunately, EPA’s ESPS proposal will constrain Americans’ energy choices and inflict significant economic harm without producing any tangible environmental benefits.  We urge you to address the wide range of issues raised by stakeholders regarding this proposal, including the three key concerns we have identified above, should you choose to proceed with issuing any final rule.  However, we strongly believe the best way to address the aforementioned concerns is by withdrawing this ill-conceived and overreaching rule in its entirety. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=595b6c9b-7563-44a8-b507-d5f0f2e7b475,La Plaza in Buhl Named Small Business of the Month,2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,www.risch.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - In recognition of their tremendous efforts and years of success, U.S. Senator Jim Risch has named La Plaza as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for September.  The business will be recognized in the Congressional Record of the United States Senate. “I am pleased to recognize La Plaza as an outstanding small business,” said Sen. Risch. “This is a restaurant that has grown and adapted for the past 11 years. Locally owned and operated, La Plaza serves unique, traditional Mexican fare to Southern Idaho and its visitors.  La Plaza is a true illustration of the American Dream. Started out of a converted two-car garage, the small business is now operated out of a 1,992 square foot space on Buhl’s Main Street.  I congratulate everyone at La Plaza on their success and wish them the very best in their future growth.” Founded in 2003 by Guadalope “Lupe” and Chon Loza, La Plaza specializes in homemade traditional Mexican cuisine.  The restaurant’s dedication to high quality ingredients and exceptional hospitality exemplifies the hard work and originality that is so characteristic of Idaho.  La Plaza has earned a remarkable reputation in the local community and with out-of-town diners, which have made the restaurant a local staple and traveler’s destination. Senator Risch is the highest ranking Republican on the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.  The committee oversees proposed legislation on matters relating to entrepreneurship and provides oversight of the Small Business Administration.  They also research, investigate and report all problems relating to American’s small businesses to the full Senate. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=357627,"Crapo, Risch Say Energy Costs Could Soar Under EPA Power Plan",2014-12-11,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 11, 2014 Crapo, Risch Say Energy Costs Could Soar Under EPA Power Plan Senators call for ruleâ??s withdrawal Washington, D.C.-Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch joined Senator Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska) and 20 of their Republican colleagues to express deep concern about the impact the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) proposed power plan would have on electricity prices and power grid reliability.  In a letter to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy, the senators call for the rule's withdrawal, citing unrealistic interim targets, a severely constrained timeline for implementation and complications related to multi-state resources among the many concerns raised by stakeholders. ""Our nation's families and businesses depend upon affordable, reliable electricity. Unfortunately, EPA's proposal will constrain Americans' energy choices and inflict significant economic harm without producing any tangible environmental benefits,"" the senators write in the letter. Joining Crapo, Risch and Fischer on the letter are: Lamar Alexander (R-Tennessee); John Boozman (R-Arkansas.); Richard Burr (R-North Carolina); Saxby Chambliss (R-Georgia); Dan Coats (R-Indiana); Thad Cochran (R-Mississippi); John Cornyn (R-Texas); Jeff Flake (R-Arizona); Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina); Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa); John Hoeven (R-North Dakota); Johnny Isakson (R-Georgia); Mike Johanns (R-Nebraska); John McCain (R-Arizona); Jerry Moran (R-Kansas); Rob Portman (R-Ohio); Pat Roberts (R-Kansas); Richard Shelby (R-Alabama); John Thune (R-South Dakota); and Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi). Full text of the letter is available below: December 10, 2014 The Honorable Gina McCarthy Administrator Environmental Protection Agency U.S. EPA Headquarters - William J. Clinton Building 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20460 Dear Administrator McCarthy, We write to express serious concern regarding EPA's proposed existing source performance standards (ESPS) under Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act and to identify some key issues that must be addressed in any final rule.  As proposed, the rule would have sweeping impacts that would not only raise Americans' electricity prices, but also jeopardize the reliability of our nation's power grid.  Among the biggest problems with the rule are the unrealistic interim targets, severely constrained timeline for implementation, and the complications related to multi-state resources. First, as both state environmental agencies and industry stakeholders have pointed out, the emission rate targets are front-loaded, requiring a disproportionate percentage of emission rate reductions in the early years of the program.  These unrealistic reduction rates do not account for the time needed to accommodate the infrastructure changes needed to achieve them.  Development of new generation and transmission resources takes time.  Planning, design, siting, permitting, and construction can easily take as long as a decade.  Comparing the interim emission rate reduction in 2020 (from the 2012 baseline) to the final emission rate reduction required by 2030, total emission rate reductions that must occur between  the 2012 baseline and the 2020 emission rate target reach as high as 90%.  The median reduction level is 66% for all states during that timeframe.  Under EPA's second building block- prematurely shutting down coal-fired generation in favor of natural gas combined cycle generation, EPA's emission rate formula results in a 100% decrease in coal generation by 2020 in some states.  Furthermore, this premature shutdown of coal fired generation will pose serious reliability risks to the electric grid and result in billions of dollars in stranded investment in expensive pollution control equipment that has been installed in order to comply with recent EPA regulations.   For these reasons, we urge the elimination of the 2020 targets. Second, states have very little time to prepare and submit implementation plans-13 months from the time EPA issues a final rule with a possibility of a one-year extension for individual state plans or two-year extension for multi-state plans.  This is simply not enough time for states to plan and prepare for such significant changes to their electricity generating portfolio, let alone address ""beyond-the-fence"" energy efficiency programs.  Moreover, regional transmission operators must have time to evaluate and provide feedback on the state plans to address impacts on regional markets and ensure power reliability.  As outlined in its 2014 Initial Reliability Review of EPA's Proposed Clean Power Plan, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation also needs time to assess resource adequacy and long-term reliability of the North American bulk power system.  A third fundamental issue to be resolved is how EPA will account for electricity resources generated in one state but used in another.  While EPA has promulgated state-based reduction targets, our electricity system is interconnected with many cross-state purchase agreements.  EPA's current proposal fails to establish a workable regulatory framework for addressing these complicated, but critically important multi state issues.  Our nation's families and businesses depend upon affordable, reliable electricity.  Unfortunately, EPA's ESPS proposal will constrain Americans' energy choices and inflict significant economic harm without producing any tangible environmental benefits.  We urge you to address the wide range of issues raised by stakeholders regarding this proposal, including the three key concerns we have identified above, should you choose to proceed with issuing any final rule.  However, we strongly believe the best way to address the aforementioned concerns is by withdrawing this ill-conceived and overreaching rule in its entirety. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398374,Simpson Touts Vital Idaho Priorities Included in Cromnibus,2014-12-10,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today applauded the release of H.R. 83, the Fiscal Year (FY) 2015 Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations bill that included many important provisions for Idaho and Western States.  “This bill represents an important step for Congress toward fulfilling its constitutional responsibility to fund government operations through the regular process,” said Simpson.  “When we fail to pass annual appropriations bills, we fail to look critically at how agencies spend taxpayer dollars, and lose opportunities to make government work better.  We can point to dozens of examples in this bill that support conservative priorities and represent good government that would not have been supported had we continued to fund the government through a Continuing Resolution.” Simpson is Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development and Vice Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior and Environment had a key role in deciding funding levels for Department of Energy and Department of Interior programs, including the following highlights:   Energy and Water Development “I am pleased to report that the Energy and Water portion of the omnibus rejects cuts to nuclear research sought by the Obama Administration and increases funding for many of the vital programs at INL,” said Chairman Mike Simpson. “We’ve worked very hard with the Lab and the people of Eastern Idaho to promote INL, and the funding in this bill will advance the critical contributions that INL makes toward a broad energy security policy in the United States.  This bill will have a lasting impact on enhancing the current capabilities of INL and building new, unique capabilities that are essential to the world class researchers at our national laboratory.” DOE’s Office of Nuclear Energy is funded at $914 million, an increase of $24.3 million over the FY14 funding level. Nuclear energy research and development programs that receive funding within the $914 million allocation include several of the following: The Idaho Operations and Infrastructure account, which covers infrastructure maintenance and improvements at Idaho National Laboratory, is funded at $200.6 million – a $20 million increase over last year. The National Science User Facility program is funded at $36.5 million – an increase of $18 million above the President’s request.  Increases under this program are directed to fully complete the installation of post-irradiation examination equipment at INL’s Irradiated Materials Characterization Laboratory (IMCL). Small Modular Reactor Licensing Support Programs are funded at $55 million.   This funding is slated for NuScale Power’s Small Modular Reactor which is proposed for construction in Idaho. The Light Water Reactor Sustainability program, which is managed by INL and promotes the continued safe operation of America’s existing nuclear reactors, is funded at $35 million, an increase of $5 million over FY14 and the budget request. The Reactor Concepts Research, Development, and Demonstration account is funded at $133 million – an increase of $20 million above fiscal year 2014 and $32.5 million above the President’s request. Within the overall $133 million level for this account, $33 million is allocated to fuel qualification for the High Temperature Gas Reactor, $11 million above the budget request. The Advanced Fuels program within Fuel Cycle Research and Development is funded at $60.1 million, the same as last year and $17 million above the President’s budget request, and Used Nuclear Fuel Disposition research and development is funded at $49 million, $19 million above FY14. Within the Office of Naval Reactors, the bill includes $68 million for the operation of the Advanced Test Reactor, an increase of $1.5 million above FY14. Within the Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability, the bill includes $5 million to continue development of an Electric Grid Test Bed program to enhance existing full-scale electric grid testing capabilities like those at Idaho National Laboratory. The bill also provides $380 million for cleanup activities associated with the Idaho Cleanup Project and the Advanced Mixed Waste Treatment Project co-located on the Idaho desert with Idaho National Laboratory. This represents an increase of $13 million above the President’s request to fully support workplan alignments needed for Idaho’s transuranic waste program as a result of the closure of the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant.  Includes an additional $2 million for the National Spent Fuel Program, putting the unique expertise of INL to work in order to provide solutions for managing the Department of Energy’s inventories of spent nuclear fuel. Prohibits the U.S. Corps of Engineers from requiring Clean Water Act section 404 permits for certain agricultural activities, such as construction and maintenance of farm or stock ponds or irrigation ditches. Directs the U.S Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of the Army to withdraw the interpretive rule, “U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of the Army Interpretive Rule Regarding the Applicability of the Clean Water Act 4 Section 404(f)(1)(A).” Section 404 of the Clean Water Act exempts certain agricultural activities, such as soil and water conservation practices, from regulation. The interpretive rule would have limited that exemption significantly.  Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee “I’m pleased with a number of public lands provisions in this bill that will have a direct and positive impact on Idaho,” said Simpson.  “PILT funding is crucial to Idaho counties, and adequate funding for wildfire suppression is essential, so I’m very glad that this bill fully funds both of those priorities.  In addition, the language delaying the sage-grouse ESA listing decision is extremely important to our state.  Stakeholders in Idaho have worked hard to create a management plan that will prevent the listing of sage-grouse as an endangered species.  Yet even stakeholders who have been at the table since the beginning of this process are concerned that the court-imposed listing deadline has resulted in less collaboration and rushed decisions.  They need more time to do the proper work that will warrant a decision not to list the species.  By delaying the listing decision, we can provide the BLM with time to do the job right.” Full funding of the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program, which compensates counties for the losses in property tax as a result of a high percentage of federal land.  Idaho counties received $28,579,192 in PILT funding for FY14. Language prohibiting funding for writing a rule to list the greater sage-grouse as an endangered species, providing stakeholders additional time to craft management plans that would work to prevent a listing. Full funding for wildfire suppression operations at the 10-year average, as well as $65 million for the Forest Service to acquire needed airtankers to fight wildfires, allowing the agency to phase out antiquated aircraft. Extends language making litigation costs more transparent and extending requirements that litigants exhaust administrative review before litigating grazing issues in Federal court. Restores $1 million to compensate ranchers for livestock killed by wolves; and Prevents agencies from limiting recreational shooting and hunting on federal lands. Defense “I’m very pleased that my colleagues have shown wide recognition and support for the importance of keeping the A-10,” said Simpson.  “The A-10’s past combat performance is lauded by both the service members that operate them and those who rely on them for close air support on the battlefield.  While I certainly acknowledge that the Air Force must make difficult decisions in this time of reduced budgets, the A-10’s low operating costs and unique capabilities merit our continued support until an appropriate replacement can be identified.” Denies the administration’s request to retire any A-10 close-air support aircraft, and provides $337.1 million to keep A-10s flying in FY15.  Prohibits funds from being used to transfer or divest AH-64 Apache helicopters from the Army National Guard to active Army in FY15. Agriculture and Rural Development Subcommittee “Fresh potatoes have been excluded from the WIC program despite their widely known nutritional value,” said Simpson. “This bill corrects the exclusion of fresh potatoes and allows WIC participants to make wholesome food choices for their young families.” Includes a provision lifting a ban on white potatoes from the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program.  This language, drafted by Congressman Simpson, ensures that fresh white potatoes and all varieties of fresh vegetables are eligible for purchase through the WIC program.  The House is scheduled to vote on H.R. 83 on Thursday, December 11.  Links to the bill text and reports can be found here: http://rules.house.gov/bill/113/hr-83",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=2b5de0c9-ee1e-4c33-8c5e-d14f7a079e2d,"Risch, Rubio Statement on Senate Intelligence Committee Release of Interrogation Study",2014-12-08,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,www.risch.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-ID) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) issued the following statement regarding the impending declassification of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence release of a partisan report on CIA interrogation and detention programs: “The one-sided report that will be released by Democrats on the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence cost U.S. tax-payers over $40 million dollars to produce, and its authors never interviewed a single CIA official.  “It is unconscionable that the Committee and the White House would support releasing this report despite warnings from our allies, the U.S. State Department, and a new coordinated Intelligence Community document assessing the increased risk to the United States the release of this report poses.  We are concerned that this release could endanger the lives of Americans overseas, jeopardize U.S. relations with foreign partners, potentially incite violence, create political problems for our allies, and be used as a recruitment tool for our enemies.  Simply put, this release is reckless and irresponsible.  We have written to the administration reminding them of these concerns.  “Congress has a legitimate and necessary role to play in conducting serious and constructive oversight of our intelligence agencies and capabilities. This report does not qualify as either serious or constructive. This was a partisan effort that divided members of the committee, and the committee against the people of the CIA.  We voted against this report because it is flawed, and voted against declassifying this report because we believed that its release could put American lives at risk, be used to contribute to propaganda against the United States by our enemies, and damage U.S. foreign policy and counterterrorism efforts.  “The American civilian and uniformed personnel who worked tirelessly in the days and months after the September 11, 2001 attacks on our nation to keep us safe and prevent another mass casualty event deserve our eternal gratitude, not politically–motivated attacks.  As a nation at war, we need a coherent detention and interrogation policy in order to extract valuable intelligence about terrorist networks from captured operatives.  The Obama Administration has no detention policy, and it has hindered U.S. efforts to fight terrorism globally.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398372,Simpson Opposes Unilateral Action By President,2014-12-04,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today opposed H.R. 3979, The National Defense Authorization Act because of the authority it extends to the Administration to train and equip the Syrian rebels. “There are many essential provisions included in H.R. 3979 that I support.  However, I opposed the bill because I cannot in good conscience vote to extend additional authority to the Obama administration’s unilateral decision to train and equip Syrian rebel groups,” said Simpson. “A determination to continue to commit billions of dollars and countless other American resources to a new, and potentially years long conflict in the Middle East is too important for Congress to rubber stamp.  We need to hold hearings, have a debate and vote after we have a complete picture of what our long-term strategy will be in this conflict.  The actions we take now will have long lasting impacts on our national security, budget, and our economy, and I for one do not trust the President with making those decisions alone.” H.R. 3979 passed with a final vote of 300-119 and now moves to the Senate for consideration.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=356584,"Crapo, Udall Lead Bipartisan Coalition on PILT, SRS Funding for Critical Local Government Services",2014-12-01,2014,2014-12,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"December 01, 2014 Crapo, Udall Lead Bipartisan Coalition on PILT, SRS Funding for Critical Local Government Services Lawmakers request full funding in end-of-year legislation Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Tom Udall (D-New Mexico) led a bipartisan coalition urging Senate leaders to fully fund the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program and Secure Rural Schools (SRS) in any end-of-year legislation.   PILT provides federal payments to local governments to help offset losses in property taxes because of nontaxable federal land within their boundaries, and these resources are critical to rural counties across the country, which use the funding to provide services, such as police, fire protection, and emergency response. The SRS program, which benefits rural counties near national forests, supports public schools, public roads, forest health projects, and other county projects. Along with PILT, rural counties rely heavily on SRS to help provide essential services to residents.   Funding for both PILT and SRS has expired, and unless the programs are renewed, counties across the country will see major budget cuts. Annually, PILT and SRS combined provide more than $700 million to rural counties across the country.   ""Moving forward, we hope that we can work together to seek a long-term solution to provide a consistent and stable source of funding for the nation's counties containing federal lands,"" the lawmakers wrote to Majority Leader Harry Reid and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. ""As we approach the end of the 113th Congress, however, we urge you to consider the economic hardship and uncertainty that these counties will face if the PILT program is not given consistent funding.""   The lawmakers added, ""In supporting the PILT and SRS programs, we have the opportunity to fulfill the federal government's obligation to local communities with large amounts of federal land."" While Congress works on a permanent, long-term fix to provide counties with proper compensation for federal lands in their jurisdictions, the letter requests Senate Leadership provide a bridge to such a solution through at least Fiscal Year 2015   In addition to Udall and Crapo, the letter was signed by Sens. Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ron Wyden, (D-Oregon), Jay Rockefeller (D-West Virginia), Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia), Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), Johnny Isakson (R-Georgia), Mark Warner (D-Virginia), Angus King (I-Maine), Carl Levin (D-Michigan), Martin Heinrich (D-New Mexico), Michael Bennet (D-Colorado), Jon Tester (D-Montana), Mark Begich (D-Alaska), Patty Murray (D-Washington), Dianne Feinstein (D-California), Barbara Boxer (D-California), Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon), Michael Enzi (R-Wyoming), John Boozman (R-Arkansas), Tim Kaine (D-Virginia), John Walsh (D-Montana), Mark Pryor (D-Arkansas), Ed Markey (D-Massachusetts), Mark Udall (D-Colorado), Dean Heller (R-Nevada), Maria Cantwell (D-Washington), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin), Debbie Stabenow (D-Michigan), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Joe Donnelly (D-Indiana), Tim Johnson (D-South Dakota), and James Inhofe (R-Oklahoma).   After years of funding PILT inconsistently, Congress in 2008 fully and automatically funded PILT for five years. In a 2012 transportation bill, full funding was extended for another year, leaving the future beyond 2013 uncertain. Earlier this year, Udall and Crapo successfully pushed for PILT funding to be included in the Farm Bill, and have continued to be strong advocates for steady, full funding.  In October 2013, Congress passed a one year reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self Determination Act as part of the Helium Stewardship Act. Udall and Crapo have advocated for reliable, full funding of the PILT and SRS programs to provide local communities certainty of these resources for long-term planning.   The full text of the letter is below:   November 24, 2014   The Honorable Harry Reid Majority Leader United States Senate 522 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC  20510   The Honorable Mitch McConnell Minority Leader United States Senate 317 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC  20510   Dear Majority Leader Reid and Minority Leader McConnell:   We write to request that full funding of the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program and the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS) program be included in any end-of-year legislation likely to pass in the Senate and House.  We greatly appreciate your attention to these programs in previous years and would welcome the opportunity to work with you to ensure that a solution be in place before the end of the 113th Congress for these payments to be funded and paid during at least Fiscal Year 2015 (FY15).   The PILT program provides critical resources to nearly 1,900 counties in 49 states and 3 U.S. territories.  It was created in 1976 to help offset losses to local governments from the presence of non-taxable federal lands.  Property taxes fund county governments allowing them to provide essential services such as law enforcement, public safety, infrastructure maintenance, education, and health services for local communities.  A fully-funded PILT program helps to ensure that counties that house federal lands can continue to provide these essential services.    The SRS program reaches over 775 rural counties and 4,400 schools located near national forests throughout the country. SRS payments support public schools, public roads, forest health projects, and other county projects.  Along with PILT, rural counties rely heavily on SRS to help provide essential services to residents.   Moving forward, we hope that we can work together to seek a long-term solution to provide a consistent and stable source of funding for the nation's counties containing federal lands.  As we approach the end of the 113th Congress, however, we urge you to consider the economic hardship and uncertainty that these counties will face if the PILT program is not given consistent funding.  In supporting the PILT and SRS programs, we have the opportunity to fulfill the federal government's obligation to local communities with large amounts of federal land.  We look forward to working with you to resolve this pressing issue facing our communities in FY15 and in the coming years.   # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398369,Simpson to Forest Service: Observe First Amendment in Wilderness,2014-11-25,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today sent a letter to U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell expressing his strong concern about the Service’s Proposed Rules for Commercial Filming in Wilderness Areas. Simpson’s primary concern is that the Administration’s final rule will place an undue burden on journalists, television programs, outfitters and guides and other media-related activities that have traditionally enjoyed access to wilderness areas for filming or photography. “My office has received considerable contact from journalists and others who regularly film or take photographs in our nation’s spectacular wilderness areas,” Simpson wrote. “These are people who appreciate wilderness, want to share its values with others, or may want to use their photographs or videos to help promote their business. These are not individuals who are looking to film feature length action movies that would do harm to wilderness areas or involve multiple cameras with large crews and extensive sets.” Simpson’s primary concern is protecting the First Amendment, “Under no circumstances should the Forest Service be dictating its views about content to the media,” Simpson wrote. “The portion of the rule that leaves open the possibility that the Forest Service could deny access over content raises serious First Amendment concerns and is contrary to any Congressional intent associated with the creation of the National Wilderness Preservation System.” Simpson is requesting Chief Tidwell to ensure the final rule addresses concerns from journalists and others who would like to film or take photographs in wilderness areas administered by the U.S. Forest Service. A copy of the letter can be found on Simpson’s website.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=2576b167-77fb-4f17-aedf-09b204e6e363,Risch Statement on Obama Executive Order,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,www.risch.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jim Risch made the following statement on President Obama’s announcement of executive action on immigration: “These are troubling times for America, when the President of the United States by executive decree seizes the Constitutional lawmaking power that belongs to the first branch of government. Regardless of the issue or who is president, every American should be deeply distressed by this new government the president is attempting to establish.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141206004754/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=72e29197-06cf-49d6-bfe6-ef54d78716a9,Risch Statement on Iranian Nuclear Talks,2014-11-24,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jim Risch made the following statement regarding news of an extension of the Iranian nuclear talks: “With this extension, President Obama has defined a new normal where Iran can continue its nuclear weapons program and receive billions of dollars in sanctions relief with no movement toward changing its unacceptable behavior. Releasing money to the Iranians while they continue to produce material that could be used for a weapon is a bad deal. Also, it is absolutely imperative that the Iranians release Pastor Abedini and the other two Americans they are holding. The Iranian regime needs to be taught that it must come to the table with serious actions to end its nuclear program, or the West will walk away, isolate, and punish their threatening behavior.  This extension will not be helpful to President Obama’s legacy.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=931,LABRADOR ISSUES STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT OBAMA'S EXECUTIVE ORDER,2014-11-21,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FOR MORE INFORMATION: Thursday | November 20, 2014 Dan Popkey – 208-800-1565   LABRADOR ISSUES STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT OBAMA’S EXECUTIVE ORDER WASHINGTON, D.C. – First District Congressman Raúl Labrador, R-Idaho, issued the following statement after President Obama’s announcement Thursday evening of a new executive order regarding U.S. immigration law:   “Today President Obama conceded his failure as a leader on immigration. Instead of finding common ground with Congress, he chose to bail out his bankrupt presidency through an order he has already admitted he cannot legally take. He violated his promise to champion reform in his first term, sabotaged bipartisan House negotiations in his second and bred distrust by failing to faithfully enforce the law throughout. “Now he wants to save face by imposing unilaterally what he could not achieve democratically. Congress must defend its constitutional role to make laws and immediately block his illegal action through all available avenues. “The president’s action not only undermines efforts to achieve real reform – it is directly opposed to it. Real reform starts with enforcing current laws, securing the border and modernizing the visa system. Only a system that works – that drives immigrants into viable avenues for legal entry – will end illegal immigration and protect the rule of law. That is what I will continue to fight for – no matter who occupies the White House.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=932,LABRADOR TO DISCUSS IMMIGRATON ON CBS' 'FACE THE NATION',2014-11-21,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FOR MORE INFORMATION: Friday | November 21, 2014 Dan Popkey – 208-800-1565   LABRADOR TO DISCUSS IMMIGRATON ON CBS’ ‘FACE THE NATION’ MERIDIAN – Congressman Raúl Labrador will appear on “Face the Nation” with Bob Scheiffer on Sunday to discuss congressional response to President Obama’s executive order on immigration. The public affairs program celebrated its 50th anniversary last month. Scheiffer, chief Washington correspondent for CBS, has anchored the show since 1991. Labrador will appear from a studio in Boise. The program airs at 9:30 a.m. MST on KBOI in Boise and KIDK in Idaho Falls; 8:30 a.m. MST on KMVT in Twin Falls; and 8:30 a.m. PST on KREM in Spokane.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398364,Simpson Supports Bills to Improve EPAs Public Accountability,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson this week supported a series of bills to bring greater transparency and accountability to actions by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  H.R. 1422, the EPA Science Advisory Board Reform Act of 2013, H.R. 4012, the EPA Science Advisory Board Reform Act of 2013, and H.R. 4795, the Promoting New Manufacturing Act, were all passed by the House of Representatives and are now awaiting action by the U.S. Senate. H.R. 1422, which makes a number of reforms to the EPA’s Science Advisory Board to ensure that EPA’s decisions are made on sound science, complements Simpson’s efforts to address concerns about the EPA’s Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) program.  In recent years the IRIS program has drawn harsh criticism from the science community.  H.R. 1422 takes action based on findings from a National Academy of Sciences study that Simpson commissioned in 2011 when he chaired the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee. “The public needs to be able to trust that EPA’s policy decisions are based on good science and not swayed by politics,” said Simpson.  “When we first examined the IRIS system, we found a broken process that lacked scientific accountability, and I’m pleased that Congress has taken up addition efforts to improve transparency and accountability and increase public participation in EPA’s decision making process.” H.R. 4012 would ensure that the scientific data used by EPA for policy decisions is available to the public.  The bill responds to concerns about the fact that the Obama Administration has not made public the data behind a number of its decisions and has refused to provide the information to Congress when requested.  Similarly, H.R. 4795 would improve accountability and transparency in EPA’s permitting process for industrial projects. “I have long expressed my concern about EPA’s appetite for aggressive regulation, a concern that is magnified by the fact that EPA cannot or refuses to provide the scientific data it uses to make these policies,” said Simpson.  “These bills are reasonable and important measures to bring transparency and accountability to the regulatory process, and I am hopeful that the Senate will act on them quickly.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398366,Simpson Response to Obamas Immigration Plan,2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"The following statement was issued by Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson following the President’s Address to the Nation on his plans for immigration:  “Let me be clear, the President's actions tonight are illegal, unconstitutional, and contrary to the way in which the American people expect the President and Congress to interact. They have the potential to throw us into a Constitutional Crisis.  “Apparently the President didn't get the message the American people sent to him two weeks ago. At the same time, I strongly believe my party's response to this inappropriate executive action should be measured and realistic.  We cannot shut down the government, impeach the President, or allow this issue to impede progress on deficit reduction, tax reform, or other critical priorities for the American people.  Instead, we should fight this edict early next year in any realistic way we can, fight the President in the courts, and move expeditiously to enact a more responsible, effective and lasting approach to immigration reform.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=356567,"GAO Report Says FSOC Lacks Transparency, Accountability",2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 20, 2014 GAO Report Says FSOC Lacks Transparency, Accountability Non-bank SIFI designation process should be systematic and measurable Washington, D.C. - Today, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released the results of a comprehensive study requested by Senate Banking Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) analyzing the Financial Stability Oversight Council's (FSOC) process to designate systemically important non-bank financial companies (non-bank SIFIs) for additional regulation by the Federal Reserve.  The FSOC is a council created by the Dodd-Frank Act to, among other things, designate a financial firm as systemically important if the institution's financial distress could cause instability of the U.S. financial system.  The GAO report highlights several problems with how FSOC oversees and manages the non-bank SIFI designation process.  Broadly, GAO concluded that FSOC's process lacks transparency and accountability, insufficiently tracks data and does not have a consistent methodology for determinations. ""Before FSOC makes further non-bank SIFI designations, its activities must be transparent and objective, with clearly outlined criteria when such designations are appropriate,"" Crapo said.  ""The non-bank SIFI designation process has proved immeasurable and unclear, with serious regulatory consequences for firms that receive the designation that will inevitably translate into higher costs for consumers and the overall economy.  Threatening to subject firms to a new regulatory regime without clear and objective standards is not only contrary to the long established principles of our regulatory framework, but doing so will lead to legal uncertainty that will undermine the very objective of FSOC."" To date, FSOC has designated three non-bank entities as systemically important, and the publicly released documents surrounding the designations have provided little useful insight into the specific criteria FSOC used.  GAO ultimately determined that making FSOC's designation process more systematic and transparent could bolster public and market confidence in the process and help FSOC achieve its intended goals.  Key findings from the GAO report: Lack of publicly available information. ""FSOC's public documentation supporting its three final determinations made through September 2014 included only a small portion of the information and analysis in its nonpublic documentation, including information from publicly available sources."" (p.39)   ""…without more fully disclosing the nonsensitive information and analysis supporting its determinations as included in its nonpublic basis documents, the public and the markets receive limited information on the bases for FSOC's determinations-which in turn may undermine the public's and the market's confidence in the determination process."" (p.41) Lack of documentation and tracking of key evaluation information. ""The determination process to evaluate companies has been in place for more than 2 years, but FSOC has not systematically recorded or monitored data related to the occurrence of significant events or comprehensive information on staff working on evaluations."" (p.27) ""Without data on when staff conduct, or which staff participate in, determination evaluations, FSOC's ability to effectively monitor the progress and evaluate the efficiency of determination evaluations may be limited."" (p.30) ""…FSOC has not centrally recorded the dates when significant events in the process occurred-such as the initiation of Stage 2 analysis-or tracked the duration of key stages in each evaluation…FSOC ultimately was unable to provide us with this information for 2012 because it has not systematically recorded or monitored the dates of key processing steps."" (p.29) Determinations largely judgment-based, rather than data-driven. ""…two of the international methodologies-those for banks and insurers-include specific calculations for weighting the analytical indicators and categories used to produce an aggregate risk score.  In contrast, FSOC's determination methodology does not have a formal mechanism for weighting evaluation criteria, but instead relies on the judgment of FSOC staff and principals in evaluating companies and making determination decisions."" (p.49) Evaluation teams assigned ad hoc and lacking continuity; varying levels of staff expertise. ""…two of the four companies [GAO] interviewed that FSOC evaluated in Stage 3 indicated that some of the analysts conducting the evaluation had limited expertise in their company's industry."" (p.27) ""…One agency official said that team lead selections were contentious in some instances.  For example, staff from this agency and another member agency state that although they each attempted to have an experienced staff member co-lead an evaluation, FSOC denied the request without explanation."" (p.27) Communication with institutions under consideration is unclear. ""Companies that the FSOC evaluated generally were satisfied with FSOC's communication throughout the process, but were unclear about how and when they could access [FSOC member agencies'] deputies and principals."" (p.30) ""Company officials stated that they also were allowed to provide additional information beyond the specific data that FSOC requested.  However, they said that they were unsure to what extent FSOC had considered the information or how FSOC incorporated it into the determination decision."" (p.31) Scope of evaluation standards limited. ""…documentation did not include details about precisely how FSOC determined that the stated characteristics were significant or sufficiently large in the context of meeting one or both of the determination standards, and FSOC's documentation could have benefitted from inclusion of such additional details."" (p.41) To view a full copy of the GAO report on recommended actions to improve FSOC's non-bank designation process, click HERE .  To view Senator Crapo's original request to the GAO, click HERE .",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=356568,"Crapo Statement On President Obamas Executive Order on Immigration",2014-11-20,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 20, 2014 Crapo Statement On President Obamaâ??s Executive Order on Immigration Washington, D.C. -Idaho Senator Mike Crapo issued the following statement on President Obama's decision to issue an executive order on immigration that could apply to as many as five million illegal immigrants: ""Rather than listening to the American people and respecting their voices in the last election, the President will instead impose his deliberately divisive action on the important issue of illegal immigration,"" said Crapo.  ""This unfortunate choice by the President will, most importantly, hurt immigrants in the long run and undercut future prospects for lasting immigration reform.  In addition, the President has done an about-face on his executive role. Just last year, he said 'I'm not the emperor of the United States.  My job is to execute laws that are passed.'  However, his administration has repeatedly tried to side-step Congress through the use of Executive Order.  The inherent checks and balances between the branches of government are a fundamental cornerstone of our democracy, and these actions set a dangerous precedent by violating our basic Constitutional principles.   ""No one should gain any advantage or benefit toward citizenship or legal permanent resident status because of illegal entry into the United States.  The unilateral legal protections provided lawlessly to millions of illegal immigrants by the President-benefits that legal immigrants must wait years to obtain-pose a profound  threat to our immigration system and rule of law, discouraging those who seek to come to America from doing so legally.  I will continue to press for a solid solution that will secure our nation's borders and advocate for sound, sensible immigration policies."" Crapo previously called on Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid for the immediate consideration of legislation to prohibit the President from implementing sweeping immigration reforms through the use of executive order.  Read the letter here.  Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=930,LABRADOR GUN RANGE BILL CLEARS HOUSE,2014-11-18,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FOR MORE INFORMATION: Tuesday | November 18, 2014 Dan Popkey – 208-800-1565 LABRADOR GUN RANGE BILL CLEARS HOUSE The measure is the third Labrador bill to pass this Congress WASHINGTON, D.C. – A bill introduced by Raúl Labrador, H.R. 5040, the Idaho County Shooting Range Land Conveyance Act, passed the U.S. House late Monday. The bill would convey 31 acres of Bureau of Land Management land to Idaho County for use as a shooting range. For years, Idaho County commissioners have sought to acquire the parcel in the Riggins area which has been informally used by sportsmen and women. Cumbersome federal regulations blocked the transfer to Idaho County, even though the Bureau of Land Management supported the idea. Rep. Labrador and his staff worked closely with both the BLM and the Idaho County Commission to develop a bill to finally resolve the issue and develop a management plan. Idaho County is the state’s largest; of its 5.4 million acres, 4.5 million acres are owned by the federal government. The County Commission has agreed to manage the 31 acres as a shooting range and work closely with law enforcement to maintain the site. “In a county full of guns that is 83 percent managed by the federal government, we’re excited at the very real prospect of our first public shooting range,” said County Commissioner Skip Brandt. “We’re very appreciative of Congressman Labrador’s willingness to chase this down.” “I’m grateful to all who’ve helped in this effort to establish a safe location for essential training by law enforcement and recreational firearms use by civilians,” Labrador said. “Given the broad support, I’m hoping the Senate will move quickly to pass this bill.” The gun range measure is the third bill authored by Labrador that has passed the House during the 113th Congress. Labrador’s H.R.657, the Grazing Improvement Act,would extend livestock grazing permits on federal lands from 10 to 20 years, giving ranchers the certainty to boost operations and local economies. The bill addresses a backlog in processing renewals by extending permits under existing terms. It also offers regulatory relief and would discourage frivolous lawsuits. The third bill, H.R. 1294, is titled the Self-Sufficient Community Lands Act. It would establish pilot community forest projects of about 200,000 acres, totaling up to 4 million acres nationwide. Local governments would manage the land in accordance with state laws. The result would be responsible production, creation of rural jobs and reduced wildfire risk.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141206004756/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=c3fb4702-db19-443e-b8d7-34e2e597c51a,"Risch, Crapo Support Keystone XL Pipeline",2014-11-18,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch voted with the minority today to support construction of the long-delayed Keystone XL pipeline. The Senate vote of 59 to 41 rejected approval of the pipeline carrying Canadian oil to the southern U.S.   The Senate action followed a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives to approve the project. “If eventually approved, the Keystone project will provide a significant economic boost to our country, creating thousands of jobs and providing needed tax revenue to states along its route,” Crapo said.  “When completed, the project will also help North America increase its energy security by reducing reliance on foreign resources from volatile countries and regions around the globe.  The Administration’s own State Department has confirmed that the development of this resource should have no meaningful impact on the environment and is the safest way to transport the oil.”  “The Keystone XL pipeline is the kind of project America really needs,” said Risch.  “It would employ thousands of workers and be paid for by the private sector, rather than our tax dollars. This vote is long overdue and I am disappointed that Democrats have blocked this project, using government power to once again frustrate the creation of jobs in the private sector.” Following today’s vote, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell announced he expects to bring the Keystone XL Pipeline back for consideration early in the next Congress. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=356555,"Crapo Introduces Legislation To Reduce Onerous Government Regulations On Job Creators",2014-11-18,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 18, 2014 Crapo Introduces Legislation To Reduce Onerous Government Regulations On Job Creators Washington, D.C. -Joined by U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Idaho Senator Mike Crapo todayintroduced a bill to reduce excessive unfunded government mandates on job creators, giving them greater freedom to invest in their companies and hire new workers. ""Businesses across the nation continue to struggle under the heavy weight of the federal government,"" said Crapo.  ""Removing the tremendous burdens placed on job creators and strengthening policies that encourage, not stifle, innovation is key to the kind of economic restoration our country needs.  Federal mandates are too often imposed without careful consideration of the negative economic consequences. This measure promotes more comprehensive decision-making and will cut down on excessive regulations by requiring federal agencies to fully evaluate the costs and benefits associated with any proposal."" ""At a time when American employers are struggling to expand and create good-paying jobs, the federal government should not be imposing unnecessary costs on the private sector,"" said Portman. ""As we continue through the weakest economic recovery since the Great Depression, we should be pursuing policies that make it easier, not harder to hire. This legislation will help job creators compete globally rather than be held back by stifling government mandates."" The legislation would strengthen the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA), for which Crapo was a co-sponsor in the 104th Congress. UMRA was a bipartisan effort to prevent Congress and federal regulators from blindly imposing regulations on the private sector and on state, local and tribal governments without first weighing the potential economic impacts. Among other measures, the legislation would require agencies to specifically assess the potential effects of new regulation on job creation or job loss; consider market-based and non-government alternatives to regulation; require agencies to choose the least burdensome regulatory option that achieves the policy goal set out by Congress; extend UMRA to independent agencies; and permit courts to review an agency's economic impact analysis under UMRA. Crapoand Portman originally teamed up to introduce the legislation in the 112 th Congress Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398362,Simpson Supports Keystone XL Pipeline,2014-11-14,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Simpson today supported H.R. 5682, a bill to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline, which would put an end to years of bureaucratic delays and allow construction of the Keystone XL pipeline project.  The Keystone XL pipeline would transport crude oil from the oil sands region of Alberta, Canada, to refineries in the United States. Because the pipeline would connect the United States with a foreign country, it requires a Presidential Permit issued by the State Department.  The State Department must find that the project would serve the national interest before it can issue the permit. The first application to the U.S. State Department to build the pipeline was submitted in 2008, and after a thorough environmental review, in 2011 an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) found that the pipeline would have limited adverse environmental impacts during its construction and operation.  Despite this, President Obama denied the Presidential Permit request in January of 2012, requiring the permitting process to begin anew.  The State Department issued a second Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement in January of 2014, confirming once again that the pipeline would have limited adverse environmental impact. “Moving forward with the permitting of the Keystone XL pipeline will create jobs and reduce our dependence on unstable foreign sources of oil,” said Simpson. “The President is yet again playing political games with our energy security, and ignoring the benefits of this project without a scientific basis for doing so.” Canadian pipeline company TransCanada has estimated that it will invest $7 billion in the United States to build the pipeline, and that up to 20,000 jobs would be directly created by the pipeline’s construction.  The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that the Keystone XL pipeline would be able to move 830,000 barrels of oil per day, which represents about half of the amount the U.S. imports from the Middle East.  “This project has broad bipartisan support in both the House and the Senate, and it has been reviewed and studied for six years and found to be environmentally safe,” Simpson said.  “I hope the Senate and the President approve this bill quickly, because the economic and energy security implications for this country are too important to delay any longer.”  H.R. 5682 authorizes the construction, connection, operation, and maintenance of the Keystone XL pipeline.  The bill deems the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement issued by the Secretary of State in January of 2014 sufficient to satisfy all the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) and any other federal law that requires federal agency consultation or review. The House passed H.R. 5682 by a vote of 252-161. It will now move to the Senate for further consideration.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=356547,"McConnell Selects Crapo to Lead Committee on Committees",2014-11-14,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 14, 2014 McConnell Selects Crapo to LeadCommittee on Committees WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has selected Idaho Senator Mike Crapo to chair the Senate Republicans' Committee on Committees, the panel responsible for committee assignments during the 114 th Congress. The assignment marks the sixth consecutive congressional two-year term that Senate leadership has asked Crapo to chair negotiations among his Republican peers in the Senate.   ""Mike is a trusted advisor and has the respect of his colleagues,"" McConnell said. ""He has a proven track record and the entire Republican conference is honored to have him once again leading our negotiations on committee assignments.""   The Committee on Committees negotiates the process of assigning Republican senators to committees. After general elections, Senate party leaders negotiate the ratios on standing committees. Crapo will provide leadership in the negotiations surrounding subsequent committee assignments.   ""I appreciate the honor and trust represented by this appointment. Partnering with Senate Republican Leader McConnell, I look forward to working to ensure my colleagues have the best possible opportunities to make a mark on the important agenda of the 114th Congress. With so many critical decisions facing the next Congress, our expanded conference has a lot of work ahead of it to meet the needs of the American people,"" Crapo said.   Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) will be assisting in the committee selection process in the 114 th Congress. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=356534,Crapo Shares Results of Veterans Survey,2014-11-11,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 11, 2014 Crapo Shares Results of Veterans Survey Idahoâ??s veteran community shares stories, offers solutions Washington, D.C.-Idaho Senator Mike Crapo today released the results of his Fall 2014 Veterans Survey-an endeavor undertaken to gather information about Idahoans' experiences with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).  More than 1,000 Idahoans from the veterans community provided feedback and participated in the survey. Following the Senate's passage of bipartisan VA reform legislation this summer, Crapo met with hundreds of veterans and veterans' advocacy groups throughout the state, asking Idahoans to share their unique perspectives on the VA.  The survey results will be used to guide Crapo's efforts on behalf of Idaho's veterans in the U.S. Senate and will be shared with officials in Washington, D.C., and with the VA to help push meaningful policy changes. ""Veterans have given so much of themselves, and we must ensure that the nation supports these extraordinary individuals for putting their lives on the line to safeguard our freedoms,"" said Crapo.  ""I am more than appreciative of our veterans' willingness to share their stories, both the good and the bad, and will continue communication with VA leaders to ensure they understand the experiences of Idaho's veterans and act appropriately to meet their needs."" Overall, approximately 51 percent of participants rated their experiences with the VA as ""satisfying"" or better, while around 30 percent of participants rated their experiences ""dissatisfying"" or worse.  Participants were asked to share the basis for their satisfaction rating.  They could select any of the following as a basis for their overall experience satisfaction: ·         Quality of VA health care; ·         Transportation to VA related appointments; ·         Wait times for appointments with the VA; ·         Benefits and Claims processing; ·         Appeals processing; ·         Educational benefits; ·         Other (please specify). Crapo's survey provided the opportunity for participants to seek assistance from the Senator in matters involving the VA or other federal agencies.  Crapo's outreach efforts generated significant growth in veteran-related constituent service with a 519 percent increase in the total number of veterans requesting aid.  ""One of the greatest aspects of my role as a U.S. Senator is the ability to act as an advocate and assist Idahoans to remedy potential issues they may be having with a federal agency.  I encourage all Idahoans to share their experiences with federal agencies, and to contact any one of my offices for assistance when they need it,"" Crapo concluded. The results of the Fall 2014 Veterans Survey are available on Crapo's official website at www.crapo.senate.gov , or you can click here to view the full report.  Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=929,Congessman Labrador statement on deaths of two Idaho Guardsmen,2014-11-07,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FOR MORE INFORMATION: Friday | November 7, 2014 Dan Popkey – 208-800-1565   Congressman Raul Labrador issued the following statement regarding the deaths of two Idaho Army National Guard pilots Thursday night. Their names have not been released pending notification of their families. “Rebecca and I send our thoughts and prayers to the families of the two Idaho National Guard pilots who died in the line of duty. Their sacrifice is a sober reminder of the price of freedom. We also are praying for the entire Idaho Guard community and ask that every Idahoan take special note of Veterans Day on Tuesday.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141107194922/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=7277310a-2cb5-41f2-823a-193b1f4c10eb,Risch Expresses Condolences Following Guard Helicopter Crash,2014-11-07,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jim Risch issued the following statement regarding the crash of an Idaho Army National Guard helicopter that killed both pilots aboard on the evening of Thursday, November 6, 2014: “Vicki and I send our thoughts and prayers to the families of those lost. Because of my special relationship with the Idaho National Guard this hits all the harder. This once again reminds us of the dangers our dedicated servicemen and women face, at home and abroad, as they work hard to keep America safe.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=356521,Crapo Statement on Loss of Two Idaho Guard Pilots,2014-11-07,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 07, 2014 Crapo Statement on Loss of Two Idaho Guard Pilots Washington, D.C. -Idaho Senator Mike Crapo issued the following statement regarding the Apache helicopter crash that claimed the lives of two Idaho Army National Guard pilots late Thursday evening: ""I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our Idaho National Guardsmen. My thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends and the entire Idaho National Guard community during this difficult time.  This tragic event serves as a poignant reminder of the dedicated service and ongoing sacrifices our military men and women make to safeguard our freedoms.""  Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=356526,Crapo's Spirit Of Freedom Award to Be Presented On Veterans Day,2014-11-07,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 07, 2014 Crapo's Spirit Of Freedom Award to Be Presented On Veterans Day Veterans, volunteers to be honored at three ceremonies Washington, D.C.-Idaho Senator Mike Crapo's Spirit of Freedom Award will be presented to twenty Idahoans this year-thirteen veterans and seven volunteers-at three ceremonies throughout the state on Veterans Day, Tuesday, November 11. The award, which was created by Crapo twelve years ago, provides an opportunity to recognize the outstanding service to our nation of area veterans and the many Idahoans who dedicate extensive timesupporting those who have served our country.  Each year, Crapo has worked with Idaho's veterans community to present the awards during Veterans Day ceremonies throughout Idaho.  All ceremonies are open to the public. ""Many of the veterans honored through this award have spent decades serving our country and now give considerably of their time to befriending and lightening the load of their fellow veterans,"" said Crapo.  ""Seeing this camaraderie that reaches beyond the battlefield and crosses generations is part of what makes honoring these individuals so rewarding."" Planned ceremonies: Boise Idaho State Veterans Home 320 Collins Road 11:00 AM Mountain Time Lewiston Idaho State Veterans Home 821 21 st Avenue 2:00 PM Pacific Time Pocatello Idaho State Veterans Home 1957 Alivn Ricksen Dr. 2:30 PM Mountain Time 2014 Sprit of Freedom Award honorees: Veterans Todd Bramhall , Meridian:  Chaplain Todd Bramhall has built on his military service to help many veterans through his ministry.  Chaplain Bramhall, who joined the U.S. Army in 1969 and served during the Vietnam War, was nominated by the Boise VA Medical Center for this award.  After 23 years of pastoral ministry and experience in VA chaplaincy in Minnesota, Ohio and Michigan, Todd became the lead chaplain at the Boise VA Medical Center in December 2007.  He has developed an outstanding, clinical chaplain program and has helped provide spiritual care for thousands of area veterans.  Todd served in the 815 th Engineer Battalion, 18 th Engineer Brigade like his father who served in the brigade in World War II.  The recognitions he received for his service include the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service and Vietnam Campaign Medals and the Army Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster.  After his service, Todd earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Warner Pacific College and a Master of Divinity degree from Nazarene Theological Seminary and began a career of pastoral ministry.  Todd and his wife, Kathy, have three sons and one daughter.  We are fortunate that Todd and his family have chosen Idaho as home and especially fortunate that he is utilizing his talents to assist the veteran community.  Thomas L. Couch , Boise:  Tom is being honored for his service to our nation and ongoing service to fellow veterans.  He was nominated for this award by the Idaho State Veterans Home-Boise where he maintains the stock in the Fort Boise Canteen, serves in the Canteen and fills in for other shifts when needed.  He also assists with getting items for the Boise home, as well as for the Office of Veterans Advocacy, the Idaho Veterans Cemetery and the home's activity department.  Tom's ability to maintain accurate records of expenditures for these activities is appreciated, and he is considered a vital part of the home.  Prior to this service to fellow veterans, Tom served in the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Naval Reserve and the Idaho Army Guard spanning more that 20 years collectively.  During his service, he earned a number of recognitions, including a U.S. Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Meritorious Service Medal.  In addition to his service, he worked for the International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) for more than 40 years.  He and his wife have two children and two grandchildren.    Gerald E. Feil, Sr. , Boise:  The Idaho State Veterans Cemetery nominated Gerald (Jerry) Feil for this award.  Master Sergeant Feil not only served our nation for more than 21 years in the U.S. Air Force, he continues to serve his fellow veterans and their families through dedicating considerable time to assisting families who visit the cemetery or attend the service for a loved one who has passed.  He is recognized for demonstrating a great sense of duty and initiative by volunteering to lead the services at the cemetery's committal shelter and greeting and consoling families during their most difficult time.  Jerry also worked with his friend and fellow volunteer Terry to construct a new temporary reader board that is considered to be a great asset to the cemetery and has greatly improved the experience for families.  Jerry joined the U.S. Air Force in 1964 and served until 1984.  For his distinguished service, Jerry has earned a Joint Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Good Conduct Medal with six Oak Leaves and the National Defense Service Medal.  Jerry also operated a lawn care business for 10 years and spent 14 years as a Rack Maintenance and Repairman for a local newspaper.  He and his wife of 44 years, Charlene, have two children and two grandchildren.  William Arnold Ferrin , Pocatello:  William Arnold Ferrin, who enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1961 and served for six years, is being honored for his remarkable service to our nation.  He served as the plane captain in a shore patrol squadron in the Vietnam War and was injured twice.  The Idaho State Veterans Home-Pocatello nominated him for this award.  After his military service, Arnold, who was born in Casper, Wyoming, lived in Albany, Oregon where he worked as carpenter for 18 years until retiring and returning to his home in Jackson, Wyoming.  He always wanted to be a pilot and participated in many outdoor activities, including hunting and fishing.  His unwavering dedication to the Navy was recognized through a special evaluation of his actions when he remained at the Naval Station in Kodiak, Alaska after his scheduled departure to assist after servere damage was inflicted on the Naval facilities and surrounding community from an earthquake.  According to the special, ""Ferrin worked around the clock in below freezing temperatures in limited lighting, only taking the time to eat and for an occasional nap.""  Douglas P. Foote , Middleton:  Douglas Foote is being honored for his distinguished service to our country.  Douglas served more than 20 years in the Air National Guard, and he earned many honors for his distinguished service.  This includes the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal with four Oak leaf Clusters, a National Defense Service Medal, an Air Force Longevity Service Medal with Oak Leaf Clusters and many more.  The American Legion Middleton Post 39 nominated him for this award.  Douglas had a desire to continue to serve his country after his military service.  He found a good way to do that was by assisting veterans organizations.  He and his wife of 30 years, Janis, donate the services of their pet and livestock sitting business to veterans in need.  He is also active in a number of veterans organizations.  This includes helping restart and serving as Commander of the Middleton American Legion Post 39; 1 st Vice-Commander for District 3, Department of Idaho; President of the Ada County United Veterans Council; a board member for Brave Hearts; and much more.  Both Douglas' son and daughter have served in the military.  Harry Gustafson , Pocatello:  The Idaho State Veterans Home-Pocatello nominated Harry Gustafson for this award for his dedicated service to our nation.  Harry Gustafson joined the U.S. Army in 1943 and served as a crane operator/Army Engineer.  He spent three years serving in Europe, with six months of the time being on the frontline in France.  Harry assisted with company communication on the frontline and had duties holding the line and keeping the Germans from crossing over.  During his service, he had a few close calls, including nearly getting hit with mortar fire when he and a fellow soldier were splicing a wire to assist with communication.  Harry earned a number of honors for his service, including a Bronze Star, the European African Middle Eastern Medal, Good Conduct Medal and World War II Victory Medal.    After returning home, he worked in a grocery store, as his childhood dream had been to own a grocery store.  He spent most of his career as a tool and dye maker in California.  He married his wife, Adeline, in 1947, and they had two daughters.  He loved going camping and fishing in the Idaho mountains with his wife and children.  Harry is recognized as ""a very loving man who did much for his wife when she was ill for his children, and for his country.""  Gerald A. Hanson , Boise:  Gerald Hanson is being honored for his extensive, dedicated service to our nation.  Gerald served with distinction for 27 years through three wars, including World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.  The Marine Corps League nominated him for this award.  Gerald earned many military honors for his notable service.  This includes the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart with one Gold Star, the Navy Presidential Unit Citation with one Gold Star, the Navy Unit Commendation, the World War II Victory Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with one Star and many more.  Following his military service, Gerald served as an Ada county Deputy Sheriff for two years.  He later retired from the U.S. Postal Service after 18 years.  He and his late wife, Jane, have three sons and one daughter.  People like Gerald are the reason our freedoms are preserved.  At a young age, he stepped forward to serve, and his commitment is inspiring.  Kay C. Kalbfleisch , Lewiston:  Major Kay Kalbfleisch, who retired from the Lewiston School District in 1992, spent decades serving our nation.  The Marine Corps League nominated him for this award for his outstanding service to our nation and its veterans.  Kay, who was born in Lewiston and grew up in Orofino, enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1952 and served for three years during the Korean War.  He then returned to college, married, had two sons and a daughter, taught school and coached.  He continued to serve as a reservist and returned to active duty during the Vietnam War.  He earned numerous honors for his service.  This includes being awarded the Bronze Star for his meritorious service as a Commanding Officer.  His citation for his award recognizes his ""inspiring leadership,"" ""superb professionalism and unwavering devotion to duty.""  After serving in Vietnam, he returned to teaching and later active duty and retired from the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve in 1979 as a Major.  He remains actively engaged in a number of veterans organizations and devotes considerable time to assisting with veterans and other community activities, including graveside memorial services, food drives, Toys for Tots, the Traveling Vietnam Wall, Veterans Day celebrations and more.  Major Kalbfleisch has served our nation with distinction and continues to serve.  Billy Joe Keng , Lewiston:  Billy Joe Keng is being honored for his exemplary service to our nation.  He was born in 1925 in Dill, Oklahoma and served our nation in the U.S. Marine Corps during the World War II.  He served in Okinawa, the Ryukyu Islands and during the Occupation of China.  His special military qualifications were serving as a mortar crewman and guard.  The Idaho State Veterans Home-Lewiston nominated him for this award.  He married Louella B. Stevens in 1948 and was a member of the American Legion Post 13 and the Moose Lodge for more than 50 years.  Billy worked as a meat cutter and Safeway Department Manager from 1950-1987.  He also volunteered for the American Red Cross and for the Idaho Veterans' Home.  At a young age, Billy Joe Keng left home to serve our nation, defend our freedoms and help liberate our allies abroad.  He then returned home and became part of the heart of the community while continuing to serve others. Robert E. Lenigan , Star:  First Lieutenant Robert (Bob) E. Lenigan is being honored for his outstanding service to our nation.  Bob, who was born in Newark, New Jersey, joined the U.S. Army and is a Vietnam combat veteran.  A Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal and Bronze Star with ""V"" device and two Oak Leaf Clusters are among the honors he earned for his distinguished service.  The Military Order of the Purple Heart, which recognizes Bob's dedication and service to veterans, nominated him for this award. Since 2002, Bob has served in many Military Order of the Purple Heart Leadership roles that include serving as Jr. Vice Commander, Senior Vice Commander and Department Commander.  His leadership has been credited with keeping the chapters active and competitive.  In addition to his military career and volunteer work, Bob has been a small business owner.  He and his wife, Terri, have two sons.  Bob Lenigan's support for our nation and ongoing support for his fellow veterans are admirable. Carl Murray , Pocatello:  Carl Murray, who was born in Kuna, Idaho, is being honored for his exemplary service to our nation during World War II.  Carl enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1942 and served for more than three years.  This included serving in the air offensive in Europe, Normandy and Nothern France during World War II.  The Idaho State Veterans Home-Pocatello nominated him for this award. Carl was a navigator for the Army Air Corps echelon strategic bombers and assisted with bombing places of resources or transportation routes.  Carl's first mission with the echelon was on June 6, 1944, D-Day.  After his military service, Carl went on to attend college and earn a Chemical Engineering degree.  He worked as a chemist and retired from a chemical processing plant near Arco, Idaho.  Carl enjoyed fishing, camping and hunting with his wife and children.  He was also a minister and an exalted ruler for the Elks Club in Blackfoot, Idaho.  Carl is well respected as an intelligent, caring man who is a pleasure to be around and has done much for his family and country.  Howard A. Osterberg , Lewiston:  Howard Osterberg is being honored for his dedicated service to our nation.  The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 10043 nominated Howard for this award.  Howard was raised on a family farm between Troy and Deary, Idaho and joined the U.S. Army on July 2, 1948.  In June 1950, he received orders to deploy to Korea.  After what he characterized as ""the hardest duty and the coldest winters of his life"" his tour ended in June 1951 and he returned to Fort Lewis, Washington.  His next assignment took him to Germany where he spent another cold winter before returning to the U.S. and being honorably discharged as a Sergeant First Class in June 1952.  The distinctions he earned for his service include the Korean Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars. Howard married in June 1954 and gained one step daughter, and was later widowed in August 1987.  He worked for Potlatch Forest, Inc. for 35 years, and joined the VFW in 1995.  He held several offices, including Post Commander, District Commander, State Inspector and State Surgeon.  In 2007, he was voted Mr. VFW for his volunteer work and leadership, and in 2011 he received a Lifetime of Achievement Award from the Department of Idaho.  Howard Osterberg's service to our nation and continued service to his fellow veterans is worthy of recognition.  Daniel Verwolf , Pocatello:  The Idaho State Veterans Home-Pocatello nominated Daniel (Dan) Verwolf for this award for his remarkable service to our nation.  Dan joined the U.S. Marines in 1965 and served for more than a year as part of a helicopter support team during the Vietnam War.  The team's duties included transporting supplies to troops and flying out those who gave the greatest sacrifice for our country.  Dan's honors for his service include a Good Conduct Medal and Vietnam Service Medal.  Dan, who was born in Bozeman, Montana, grew up in the city, but at the age of six his family moved to Manhattan, Montana, where he quickly learned to become a cowboy.  He loved working with his family on the ranch and running cattle.  After his military service, Dan had many jobs, but really enjoyed driving truck.  Dan is acknowledged for his considerable sacrifice for his country. Volunteers Mary K. Caldwell , Garden City:  Mary Kathleen (Kathy) Caldwell is being honored for the considerable assistance she provides to area veterans.  The Idaho State Veterans Home-Boise nominated her for this award.  Kathy has been volunteering for more than three years at the home, helping with a number of activities, including outings and trips and assisting in the Canteen.  She is a regular at the home's bi-monthly shopping trips, the monthly senior center lunches and breakfasts, Festival of Trees, Western Idaho Fair and various holiday parties.  She is well-respected for her willingness to always pitch in and help. Kathy's giving spirit runs deep.  Since the age of eight, she gave away food, blankets and more to those in need.  In addition to her service at the veterans home, she spearheaded the ""Arrest the Cold"" blanket drive while employed at the Idaho Department of Corrections, prior to her retirement.  She also participates in the Stuff the Bus campaign each year, makes regular deliveries to shelters, the Food Bank and assists at Goodwill.  Kathy indicates that the love she gets back and the friends she makes are what she enjoys about volunteering.  She says that she has always enjoyed helping people.  Kathy is a great asset to the community and an inspiration to all those who are blessed to know her.  Don Crisp , Lewiston:  The Idaho State Veterans Home-Lewiston nominated Don for this award for his dedicated volunteer service to the home since 2006.  He assists with weekly bible study, monthly singing during ice cream socials, and he helps out wherever needed as a good friend to the residents.  Don is known for his great rapport with the veterans and their spouses, and he is considered to be an asset to the veterans home.  Don credits his journey with God for his service work.  According to Don, ""This began the most exciting portion of my life.  I started doing nursing home ministry and serving others instead of just myself.""  In addition to volunteering in the veterans home, Don and his wife, Marilynne, are dedicated to reaching out to people in retirement and nursing homes in the area.  Don also served in the U.S. Marines for eight years from November 1953-November 1961.  Like Don, all of his four children, two sons and one daughter, from his first marriage served in the military.  Don has resided in Lewiston since June 1977 when he moved his business from Missouri to Lewiston.  He operated the business until 1990 and then worked as a Business & Sales Representative for the Husqvarna Co. of Sweden in their Power Equipment Division until he retired in 1998.  Don is an important part of the community, and his friendships and connection with fellow veterans is special.  Barry C. Kelso , Boise:  Barry C. Kelso is a strong advocate on behalf of veterans both within his family and within the veterans' community.  The Boise Valley POW-MIA Corporation nominated him for the Spirit of Freedom Award.  After serving as Seaman Apprentice in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, Mr. Kelso resumed his civilian career and worked tirelessly to achieve the Purple Heart for his uncle, Orval Allen Kelso, who fought on Wake Island and died during World War II.  Mr. Kelso worked with Idaho filmmaker Noah Barnes and executives at URS, formerly Morrison-Knudson, to help document the sacrifice of Idahoans on Wake Island. This effort saw Mr. Kelso spearheading the creation of a permanent Wake Island Veterans Memorial alongside existing memorials at the Idaho Veterans State Park in Boise.  For the first time, the stories of Idaho veterans and civilians who were taken as Prisoners of War and who defended our freedom on Wake Island are documented in this public exhibit.  Mr. Kelso, affectionately known as ""Captain"" to his associates, proudly flies the POW-MIA flag outside his home.  He installed the flag during a ceremony outside his Boise residence.  Mr. Kelso has given generously of his time at POW-MIA rallies and events such as the ""Chrome at the Home,"" and is a long-time volunteer at the Idaho Veterans Home.    Lori Marvin , Blackfoot:  Lori Marvin has dedicated considerable time over the last more than eight years volunteering at the Idaho State Veterans Home-Pocatello, that has nominated Lori for this recognition.  Lori is considered a pleasure to work with, dedicated to serving veterans, and her positive attitude inspires others.  She enjoys taking veterans to the Eastern Idaho State Fair and spending the day enjoying food, seeing booths, animals and special programs.  Most of all, she enjoys seeing the smiles on veterans faces.  Those who nominated her feel she reflects a true volunteer spirit of compassion, dedication and energy and indicate that ""her love for veterans and seniors is shown in her words and actions.""         Lori's father is a veteran, and she has always had a great admiration for veterans.  In addition to the assistance she provides at the veterans home, she is a board member for the Idaho Veterans Assistance League and the Elks Veterans Chairman and Elks East Idaho Chairman.  She has worked to unite Elks lodges to raise money to help veterans.  Lori has lived in Blackfoot for 14 years and is the owner of Lori's Salon.  Lori and her husband, Mike, have been married for 12 years.  She is regarded as having a great gift of seeing a need and finding a way to help.  Her work is making a big difference in the lives of those who are blessed to know her. Mary May , Eagle:  Mary May is being honored for her extensive volunteer service on behalf of our nation's veterans.  The Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, where Mary May has volunteered since May 2014, nominated Mary for this award.  With family members in all branches of military service, Mary has been a long-time volunteer for military-related causes.  She enjoys making a positive difference in someone's life.  In her words, ""Through volunteering at the Veterans Cemetery, I feel privileged to be able to reach out to someone during such a difficult and emotional time in order to let them know that they are not alone-that their sacrifice and their loved ones' sacrifices on behalf of our country are acknowledged and appreciated."" I addition to volunteering at the cemetery, Mary dedicates considerable time to volunteering through many other organizations.  She is the founder and chair of the Eagle Food and Wine Festival, the founder and chair of the Central Valley Expressway Coalition and founding member and co-chair of ESTech:  Eagle-Emmett-Star Technology Corridor.  Mary also serves as the President of the College of Western Idaho Foundation Board of Directors, is a sustaining member of the Junior League of Boise, member of the Board of Directors of the Special Olympics of Idaho, a Board Member for Idaho Performing Arts and much more.  In nominating her for the award, Idaho State Veterans Cemetery Administrator James Earp wrote, ""Her actions inspire those around her to strive for excellence.  Her presence at the cemetery provides an energy that motivates her fellow volunteers and also comforts those during the difficult interment experience.""  Beyond the work she does, she has a gift for encouraging others through her example.  Milton D. Smith , Meridian:  Milton (Milt) Smith, a native Idahoan, is being honored for his extensive service to our nation and its veterans.  He assists his fellow veterans as a Veteran Service Officer with the Idaho Division of Veterans Services that nominated him for this honor.  He works to ensure that benefits due to veterans are rightly realized.  He has also been appointed as the American Legion Department Service Officer and works for the improvement of veterans benefits.  Milt joined the U.S. Navy in 1961 and dedicated 26 years serving our nation as an Aviation Electronics Technician.  During his military service, he was deployed twice to the Western Pacific in support of the Vietnam War and received several promotions and honors for his distinguished service.  This includes the 1969 Naval Air Station Imperial Beach Navy Man of the Year, the Navy Achievement Medal and a Meritorious Unit Commendation.  In 1986, he retired from active duty and worked for the Boeing Company and the Department of Idaho before his current position.  Milt also serves as an Adult Sunday School Teacher, participates in Toastmasters and walks his dog, Buddy.  He and his wife, Karen, have six children, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  Milt's experience as a veteran gives him valuable perspective in assisting other veterans and championing needed benefits changes.  Sam Wanacott , Boise:  The Boise VA Medical Center nominated Sam for this award, as Sam has dedicated considerable time over the past nine years volunteering in Recreation Therapy.  Sam began volunteering as a high school student continuing on into college.  His willingness to make himself available for the needs of the veterans and his good rapport with residents, staff and other volunteers is recognized.  Sam is considered to be an example in leadership for the high school volunteers in Recreation Therapy.     Sam enjoys meeting veterans and assisting them where needed.  He also enjoys working with staff and other volunteers in recreation programs and special events.  Through his volunteering, the VA feels like a second home to Sam and many of the staff and volunteers are nearly family.  Sam assists with numerous activities, including the Winter Carnival, Festival of Trees and Patient Carnival.  He also plays chess with veterans, serves as a State Fair escort and assists with the Community Living Center newsletter.  Sam indicates he looks forward to assisting, talking with and getting to know veterans in helping with improving their quality of life.  Sam is an Economics major at Boise State University.  Sam's dedication to assisting veterans from a very young age is inspirational.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=356515,Crapo on INL Director's Departure,2014-11-05,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 05, 2014 Crapo on INL Director's Departure Washington, D.C. - Idaho Senator Mike Crapo issued the following statement after Admiral Grossenbacher announced that after a decade of dedicated service he will step down from his role as Director of the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) and President of Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC: ""We owe Admiral Grossenbacher a debt of gratitude for his leadership in driving the mission of the Idaho National Laboratory and for the foundation he paved for nuclear research in Idaho,"" said Crapo.  ""I am thankful for the opportunity to have worked with him for many years, and know firsthand that his efforts helped to shape the many successes at the INL.""  Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=356516,"Crapo Calls on Senate Leadership to Halt Forthcoming Executive Action on Immigration",2014-11-05,2014,2014-11,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"November 05, 2014 Crapo Calls on Senate Leadership to Halt Forthcoming Executive Action on Immigration Says Presidentâ??s threats require immediate congressional response Washington, D.C. -Idaho Senator Mike Crapo, along with Senators Jeff Sessions (R-Alabama) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas), called on Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid today to immediately consider legislation to block the President's foreseeable attempt to circumvent Congress to implement sweeping immigration reforms through the use of Executive Order. Following the President's controversial September pledge to unilaterally act on immigration after the conclusion of the midterm elections, many have speculated that the likely impending executive actions may expand the Administration's 2012 order which deferred deportations for hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants brought to the U.S. as children.  While no specifics have been shared, some observers believe the President's plan could provide legal protections and work permits to as many as five million illegal immigrants. In the letter to Majority Leader Reid, the senators voiced concerns over the Administration's efforts to undermine the separation of powers guaranteed under the Constitution, saying in part "" We write to express our alarm with President Obama's announced intention to take unilateral executive action by the end of this year to lawlessly grant amnesty to immigrants who have entered the country illegally.  The Supreme Court has recognized that ""over no conceivable subject is the power of Congress more complete"" than its power over immigration.  Therefore, President Obama will be exercising powers properly belonging to Congress…This will create a constitutional crisis that demands action by Congress to restore the separation of powers."" ""Any reforms to our immigration laws must be the product of a full, transparent debate in the halls of Congress, not imposed through Administrative dictate,"" said Crapo.  ""No individual should gain any advantage or benefit toward citizenship or legal permanent resident status because of illegal entry into the United States, and I am deeply concerned about the President's intentions to selectively enforce our immigration system to achieve his desired policy agenda."" To read the full text of the letter, click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=356461,Crapo Named Friend of the Farm Bureau,2014-10-23,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 23, 2014 Crapo Named â??Friend of the Farm Bureauâ?? Senator presented with award at ceremony in Boise BOISE -The Idaho Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) presented U.S. Senator Mike Crapo with the 'Friend of the Farm Bureau' award today in Boise for his efforts in the 113 th Congress.  Crapo, a member of the Senate Finance and Environment and Public Works Committees with jurisdiction over agricultural related tax and environmental policies, accepted a plaque from IFBF President Frank Priestley, detailing the bureau's appreciation for the Senator's leadership on agricultural issues and his contributions to the Farm Bill. Formed in 1919, the national American Farm Bureau Federation is an independent organization dedicated to advocating for farmers and ranchers, strengthening the lives of rural Americans and building strong, prosperous agricultural communities. ""Farm families are facing ever increasing challenges in providing Idahoans and the nation with an abundant, affordable food supply,"" said Crapo.  ""They continue to experience growing pressures on farm and ranch land, including excess government regulations and restrictions, burdensome paperwork requirements and tax uncertainty.  It is an honor to be named a friend to Idaho's producers, and I will continue to work to advance measures that remove these barriers to ensure our agriculture communities continue to thrive."" ""The members of our congressional delegation understand the importance of agriculture to our state's economy and to our nation's security,"" said Idaho Farm Bureau President Frank Priestley. ""It's a pleasure to work with these fine gentlemen."" Award recipients are nominated by their respective state Farm Bureaus and approved by the American Farm Bureau Board of Directors. The award, which is given to legislators at the end of each Congress, is based upon a member's 'farm-friendly' voting record, number of bills that a member has sponsored and co-sponsored, specific leadership role for Farm Bureau priority issues and how accessible and responsive a member is to Farm Bureau members and leaders. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=356465,"Crapo Sets Public Meetings in Silver Valley, Benewah County",2014-10-21,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 21, 2014 Crapo Sets Public Meetings in Silver Valley, Benewah County Kellogg - Idaho's Silver Valley and Benewah County will be the next stops in Idaho Senator Mike Crapo's schedule of town meetings across Idaho.  Crapo will hold formal town meetings and meet with county officials in Pinehurst, Kellogg, Wallace, Mullan, St. Maries and Plummer next week. He will also host meet and greet open houses in Osburn and Harrison.   The Silver Valley schedule will follow Crapo's stops this week in southwest Idaho.  He will visit Kuna, Boise, Caldwell, Wilder, Melba, Nampa, Crouch, Horseshoe Bend, Emmett, Weiser, Fruitland, Idaho City, Garden City, Eagle, Star and Meridian this week.  At some stops, Crapo will be accompanied by other members of the Idaho Congressional Delegation.  The full listing of Crapo's town meetings is available on Crapo's official website at https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_all.cfm   ""Idahoans have really turned out for these town meetings and their common-sense solutions to the issues we face as a nation are valuable,"" Crapo said.  The town meeting schedule will likely continue into next year.  The schedule began last month with a meeting at a lumber mill in Moyie Springs in Idaho's Panhandle.   The schedule for Crapo's meetings in the Silver Valley and Benewah County is below:   Thursday, October 30:   Pinehurst:  Pinehust City Hall, 106 N. Division Street 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM   Kellogg:  Idaho Department of Labor, 35 Wildcat Way, Suite A 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM   Osburn:  Meet and greet at Mom's Vintage Eatery, 713 Mullan Avenue Noon  - 1:00 PM   Mullan:  Mullan City Hall, 112 Terrill Loop 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM   Wallace:  Wallace High School, 1 Miners Alley 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM   Friday, October 31:   Harrison:  Meet and greet at the Landing Restaurant, 204 Coeur d'Alene Avenue 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM   St. Maries:  Elks Lodge #1418, 628 Main Avenue Noon - 1:00 PM   Plummer:  Plummer City Hall, 880 C Street 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM   Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398360,Simpson Praises Findings of Safety Evaluation Report,2014-10-17,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today released a statement on the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s (NRC) completion of a key volume of the Safety Evaluation Report for the Yucca Mountain Nuclear Waste Storage Project. Simpson is Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and has the lead role in deciding funding for all Department of Energy programs. “The findings of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in the Safety Evaluation Report provide the strongest evidence yet that Yucca Mountain is safe and that the project should move forward,” said Simpson.  “Yucca Mountain has been the law of the land for nearly 30 years, and we have spent $11 billion dollars on the effort up to this point.  It is mindboggling that the administration continues to block the project despite overwhelming scientific evidence confirming its safety.”  The NRC originally received an application from the Department of Energy (DOE) in June of 2008 for a license to construct and operate the nation’s first geologic repository for high-level nuclear waste at Yucca Mountain in Nevada.  In March of 2010, the Obama Administration filed a motion to withdraw its application, and the NRC unilaterally halted its technical review of Yucca Mountain in September 2011.  The completion of the third volume of its Safety Evaluation Report follows an August 2013 decision by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals decision ordering the NRC to continue its review of the licensing application at least until available funds are expended.  The Court found that the NRC was “simply defying a law enacted by Congress, and…is doing so without any legal basis.” “It’s time to stop wasting taxpayer money on political games and move forward on Yucca Mountain,” Simpson said.  “All of the technological developments that are happening now at the Idaho National Lab and elsewhere in the field of nuclear energy will ultimately depend on our ability to find a permanent repository for spent nuclear fuel.  In light of this new NRC report, I hope that the administration will rethink its baseless objections on Yucca Mountain.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398045,Simpson Urges Full Funding of PILT SRS for FY2015,2014-10-15,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson joined a number of western colleagues in urging House leadership to secure full funding for Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) and Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act (SRS) programs for fiscal year 2015.  In a letter to House Speaker John Boehner and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, Simpson and others urged that the federal government fulfill its responsibility to counties with tax-exempt federal land by fully funding both programs. Legislation authorizing full funding of PILT expired at the end of September.  The letter reads:  “While it must be our ultimate goal to enact a long-term, sustainable solution to eliminate the ongoing uncertainty our counties face [while Congress authorizes these programs on a year-to-year basis], an extension and full-funding of these programs is essential to address immediate needs…Without congressional action, we risk severely crippling these counties’ ability to operate. “Equally important is the funding that more than 700 forest counties and school districts receive through SRS.  These payments honor the over 100 year old contract between the federal government and counties housing the 193 million acres of National Forest land.  Due to extremely low productivity on the federal forests over the past two decades, these funds are more critical to counties’ well-being than ever. ” Simpson has been a long-time advocate for extending the existing mandatory authorization of PILT.  “PILT is the equivalent of the federal government paying the property taxes it owes to the counties where it owns land.  If we fail to fully fund the government’s obligations under PILT, the federal government is essentially failing to pay its taxes and fulfill its commitments to counties throughout Idaho and the West.  As a result, many counties—especially those with a large percentage of federal land—will be unable to provide essential services.  These counties know that PILT is not an optional ‘nice to have’ but critical to their ability to serve their communities.” The letter was signed by 41 members and delivered to House leadership on October 15, 2014.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=928,LABRADOR RECORD HAILED BY FARMERS & MANUFACTURERS,2014-10-15,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FOR MORE INFORMATION: Wednesday | October 15, 2014 Dan Popkey – 208-800-1565   LABRADOR RECORD HAILED BY FARMERS & MANUFACTURERS Congressman’s performance during the 113th Congress recognized by two national groups MERIDIAN – Rep. Raúl Labrador has been honored by the American Farm Bureau Federation and National Association of Manufacturers for his  support of agriculture and manufacturing in the United States. Labrador was named a “Friend of the Farm Bureau” by NFIB for his voting record, sponsorship of legislation, leadership on key Farm Bureau issues and accessibility to farmers, ranchers and Farm Bureau leadership. Labrador was nominated by the Idaho Farm Bureau and the award was approved by the Board of Directors of the American Farm Bureau. Idaho’s other members of Congress – Sens. Mike Crapo and Jim Risch and Rep. Mike Simpson – also received the award. “The members of our congressional delegation understand the importance of agriculture to our state’s economy and to our nation’s security,” said Idaho Farm Bureau President Frank Priestley. “It’s a pleasure to work with these fine gentlemen.” Farm Bureau is the largest general farm organization in the U.S., with affiliates in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Labrador also was honored by the country’s largest manufacturing association, the National Association of Manufacturers, which represents small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and all 50 states. He received the “NAM Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence” for his record on 29 key votes in the House in 2013 and 2014. Labrador earned an 89 percent rating from NAM. Among the scored votes were several promoting diverse energy exploration and development, including speeding approval of the Keystone XL pipeline; regulatory, tax and tort reform bills; and both all-out repeal of the Affordable Care Act and a one-year delay of the law’s employer mandate. “The NAM is proud to stand with lawmakers like Rep. Labrador who understand what is at stake and seek to implement policies that will foster innovation, growth and competiveness,” said Aric Newhouse, senior vice president of policy and government relations. Sens. Crapo and Risch and Rep. Simpson also received the NAM award. The Farm Bureau and NAM awards were announced this month. In September, Labrador was recognized by two other major associations for his 2013-14 pro-business voting record. He was named a “Guardian of Small Business” by the National Federation of Independent Business and received the “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” from the National Taxpayers Union.                                                                                                                                                   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=28c0553b-142c-44f9-8ed8-7f80a1c9e998,Risch Named 'Friend of Farm Bureau',2014-10-10,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,www.risch.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jim Risch was today honored by the American Farm Bureau Federation as a ‘Friend of Farm Bureau’ for his efforts during the 113th Congress. “As a rancher, I understand the immeasurable value that Idaho’s farmers and ranchers bring locally, nationally, and internationally,” said Risch.  “I am proud to once again be recognized as a ‘Friend of Farm Bureau’ for my work in the United States Senate.” The Friend of Farm Bureau award is given at the end of each Congress to those members of Congress who were nominated by their respective state Farm Bureaus and approved by the American Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors. This award is based upon voting records on AFBF’s priority issues established by the Board of Directors, number of bills that a member has sponsored and co-sponsored, specific leadership role for Farm Bureau on priority issues, and how accessible and responsive that member is to Farm Bureau members and leaders. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=927,LABRADOR RESPONDS TO 9TH CIRCUIT RULING ON MARRIAGE,2014-10-08,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FOR MORE INFORMATION: Tuesday | October 7, 2014 Dan Popkey – 208-800-1565   LABRADOR RESPONDS TO 9TH CIRCUIT RULING ON MARRIAGE Congressman Raúl Labrador, R-Idaho, issued the following statement in response to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling striking down Idaho’s constitutional protection of traditional marriage: While I personally believe that marriage should be defined as the union of a man and a woman, marriage is an issue that should be decided by the states.  Marriage should not be redefined by unelected judges who continue to trump the will of the people of the various states.  In 2006, 282,000 Idahoans -- more than 63 percent of those voting -- amended the Constitution to preserve traditional marriage.  Now, a single judge in Idaho and a panel of judges in San Francisco have trumped the will of the vast majority of the people of this state.  I believe the U.S. Supreme Court should review these federal court decisions  and reaffirm that the people of the 50 states have the right to define marriage. Regardless of how the Supreme Court ultimately decides this question, our focus at the federal level should be on guaranteeing the religious liberty of those who continue to believe in traditional marriage. This is why I introduced H.R. 3133, the Marriage and Religious Freedom Act, which would prohibit adverse actions by the IRS or other federal agencies based on a person or a group’s views on marriage.                                                                                                                                                 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20141010012004/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=e14ab2e4-da14-4930-9677-3fb50570d7c2,Risch Welcomes Fall Interns to Senate Office,2014-10-08,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, DC— U.S. Senator Jim Risch has selected two college students from the state of Idaho to serve as fall interns in his Washington, D.C., office. The interns have the opportunity to engage in the national level of government while assisting with constituent services and legislative research. “Interning in the U.S. Senate is an excellent way to learn about the legislative branch of government and to see where much of our nation’s early history took place,” said Risch. “These interns are highly qualified and will serve Idaho well.” The interns are: Lauren Conrad, a University of Idaho junior from Boise. Lauren is pursuing a double major in political science and economics and a minor in accounting. She has served as a junior volunteer at St. Luke’s Regional Medical Center and is a member of Delta Gamma Sorority. Lauren is the daughter of Vic and Jani Conrad of Boise. Jayson Vial, a graduate of Boise State University from Susanville, Calif. Jayson studied political science with an emphasis in American government and public policy and international relations. He served as an intern for the House majority leadership members of the Idaho State Legislature and as assistant mock trial coordinator for the Idaho State Bar. Jayson is the son of Richard and Tammi Vial of Susanville, Calif. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=356430,Republican Senators Demand Answers on DOJs Operation Choke Point,2014-10-06,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 06, 2014 Republican Senators Demand Answers on DOJâ??s â??Operation Choke Pointâ?? Operation must not become end-run around Second Amendment rights Washington, D.C. - Today, Republican Senators on the Senate Banking Committee sent a letter to the Department of Justice (DOJ) demanding answers regarding a DOJ-led effort that is negatively impacting law-abiding and legitimate businesses by choking them off from the banking sector, known as Operation Choke Point.  The letter, led by Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), raises concerns that the operation is inappropriately targeting certain business models and is politicizing the payment system and access to credit markets. ""Operation Choke Point has morphed into an attempt to shut down entire industries of law-abiding and legitimate merchants,"" Crapo said.  ""In Idaho, I have heard from individuals involved in the guns and ammunition business who experienced difficulty finding essential banking services as a result of this fear and uncertainty.  The Department of Justice must not politicize its enforcement policies and we must not let Operation Choke Point become an end run around the Second Amendment by threatening the financial security of gun and ammunition manufacturers."" Late last summer, news reports surfaced regarding Operation Choke Point and how it has been targeting certain industries' ability to access banking services and the payments system without first demonstrating that a company is breaking the law.  The effort is causing banks to deny or terminate credit lines, close bank accounts, and prevent payment processing due to fear of DOJ subpoenas or unjustified regulatory action by federal banking regulators.  The senators request the Department to provide information regarding the legality of Operation Choke Point, how the Department is working with the financial regulators to carry out its objectives, and what steps it plans to take in order to provide market clarity in light of the operation. Senators joining Crapo on the letter include Banking Committee members David Vitter (R-Louisiana), Mike Johanns (R-Nebraska), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Tom Coburn (R-Oklahoma) and Dean Heller (R-Nevada). Full text of the letter is below.  To view a signed copy of the letter, click here . ___________________________________________________________________   October 6, 2014   The Honorable Eric Holder Attorney General United States Department of Justice 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC  20530   Dear Attorney General Holder: We write to express our strong concerns regarding ""Operation Choke Point"" and its impact on merchants, financial institutions, and consumers. Specifically, Operation Choke Point is inappropriately targeting business models not supported by the Administration and is politicizing the payment system and access to credit markets. The result is causing banks and payment processors to deny or terminate loans and restrict access to payment systems for law-abiding and legitimate businesses to avoid unwarranted investigations and legal actions by the Department of Justice (""DOJ"") and Federal financial regulators.  Last summer, news reports surfaced regarding a DOJ-led initiative (named ""Operation Choke Point"") with other members of the Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force (including the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (""FDIC""), the Federal Trade Commission(""FTC""), and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (""OCC"")) to crack down on mass frauds. As part of Operation Choke Point, rather than initiating cases against specific bad actors, these Federal agencies devised a list of certain ""high-risk merchant"" categories with the intent of ""choking-off"" these merchants' access to payment systems and banking services. This list appears to have been created with no public input, no compliance guidance or metrics for private entities to follow, and with disregard for the legality of a merchant's operation. Further, the list has been used as a pretext by DOJ to limit essential banking services for industries out of favor by this Administration. According to constituents who have been affected by Operation Choke Point as well as news reports and documents obtained by Congress, banks and payment processors believed that if they did business with small businesses on that list they would face heightened regulatory scrutiny, including potentially being penalized in banking examinations and subject to subpoenas and enforcement actions by the DOJ.  We understand that these concerns have caused law-abiding and legitimate gun store owners and short-term, small-dollar credit lenders to lose access to payment systems and basic banking services.  In addition, small and community banks have lost valuable customers merely because their legal businesses are disfavored by Federal agencies, while consumers have lost access to merchants they need and value.   Last month, at the urging of many members of Congress, the Federal financial regulators updated regulatory guidance and retracted the list of ""high-risk merchant"" categories.  This is an encouraging first step. However, it will be important to monitor how this new guidance is implemented at the bank examiner level and in the selection of enforcement actions by the regulators. It is now imperative that the DOJ also revise its implementation of Operation Choke Point. To date the DOJ has implemented Operation Choke Point by relying on a highly-questionable interpretation of the Financial Institution Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act (""FIRREA"") to investigate banks and payment processors and hold them liable for alleged wrong-doings of their merchant customers. The DOJ must focus on combating fraud and stop politicizing its enforcement policies. It should promptly cease seeking to use subpoenas and legal actions to unfairly impose liability on parties not involved in fraud and to put out of business merchants engaged in legal and legitimate commerce that DOJ disfavors.  As members of the Senate Banking Committee, which is responsible for oversight of financial regulation, we have a responsibility to fully understand and review DOJ's implementation of Operation Choke Point.  The Committee has previously requested information about Operation Choke Point.  Unfortunately, your June 24 th letter to the Senate Banking Committee did not satisfactorily address our concerns. Accordingly, we request that you provide us with the following information: A detailed explanation and guidance on how FIRREA and other laws will be enforced as part of Operation Choke Point and similar initiatives, including how reputational risk concerns will be addressed. Please provide all communications between the DOJ and each Federal financial regulator (including the FDIC, the FTC, and the OCC) concerning the development and implementation of Operation Choke Point and similar initiatives. Please identify the number of referrals or informal ""tips"" that each Federal financial regulator (including the FDIC, the FTC, and the OCC) has made to the DOJ as a part of Operation Choke Point and similar initiatives or that has resulted in a FIRREA investigation. Please describe the steps the DOJ will take to refocus its implementation of Operation Choke Point in light of the new regulatory guidance. We respectfully request all responsive information be provided to us by November 2, 2014. Thank you for your cooperation.   Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397540,Simpson Continues Fight Against Obama Water Grab,2014-10-03,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today expressed continued opposition to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed rule to expand federal jurisdiction over water.  This week the Small Business Administration expressed “deep concern” in a letter to the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers about the impact of the rule on agriculture and other small businesses.  The letter echoed Simpson’s call to withdraw the rule. “I have long expressed concern about the negative impact that the EPA’s attempted water grab would have on agriculture in Idaho.  Unfortunately, we are now seeing these predictions play out,” said Simpson.  “The more this rule is analyzed, the more ridiculous the EPA’s claims that it won’t negatively affect agriculture and other industries become.  With the SBA weighing in that the rule would have ‘direct and significant impact on small businesses,’ it’s time to renew the call to withdraw this rule.” This week Simpson joined colleagues in other dairy states in sending a letter to the EPA, the Corps, and USDA expressing concern about the impact that the rule would have on the dairy industry, among others.  He crafted language in both the FY15 House Interior and Environment Appropriations bill and the FY15 House Energy and Water Appropriations bill to prevent the rule from moving forward.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=926,LABRADOR HONORED BY FREE-MARKET & CIVIL LIBERTIES THINK TANK,2014-10-03,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FOR MORE INFORMATION: Friday | October 3, 2014 Dan Popkey – 208-800-1565   LABRADOR HONORED BY FREE-MARKET & CIVIL LIBERTIES THINK TANK Congressman one of 29 with perfect scorecard in the 113th Congress MERIDIAN – Rep. Raúl Labrador’s votes on employment and workforce issues have earned him the “Champion of the Worker” award from the Competitive Enterprise Institute. Founded in 1984, the non-profit group advocates limited government, free enterprise, privacy and individual liberty. Labrador is among 29 House members, all Republicans, to receive a 100 percent score from CEI on 15 key votes in 2013 and 2014. “These lawmakers resisted all of the accounting gimmickry, unfunded government handouts that burden future workers and additional federal mandates that put people’s jobs and economic well-being at risk,” said CEI senior fellow Aloysius Hogan. CEI scores votes based on increasing employment, creating incentives for workers, growth in workers’ incomes and improving worker freedom. Among the key votes  were measures supporting time-and-a-half compensatory time as payment in lieu of overtime pay and a prohibition of action by the National Labor Relations Board pending a U.S. Supreme Court decision on the constitutionality of “recess appointments” made by President Obama. The NLRB vote on H.R. 1120 was in April 2013 and passed the House, 219-209; but the bill stalled in the Senate. In June 2014, the Supreme Court unanimously held that three of the president’s appointments to the NLRB were unconstitutional. “Limiting the role of government in the workplace is good for employees and their families, stimulates innovation and prosperity and helps cut federal spending,” Labrador said. “I’m pleased to be among a growing number of free-market voices in Congress advancing these values.” Labrador received the award in mid-September.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=925,LABRADOR RECORD APPLAUDED BY BUSINESS & TAXPAYER GROUPS,2014-10-02,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FOR MORE INFORMATION: Thursday | October 2, 2014 Dan Popkey – 208-800-1565   LABRADOR RECORD APPLAUDED BY BUSINESS & TAXPAYER GROUPS Congressman’s votes during the 113th Congress recognized in recent awards MERIDIAN – Rep. Raúl Labrador has been honored by the National Federation of Independent Business and the National Taxpayers Union for his support of business and fiscal responsibility. Labrador was named a “Guardian of Small Business” by NFIB for his 100 percent voting record on 10 issues tracked by the group in 2013 and 2014. Among those was his support of delaying the individual mandate in the Affordable Care Act by one year; approval of the Keystone XL Pipeline without a presidential permit; and legal sanctions aimed at reducing frivolous lawsuits. He received the “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” from the National Taxpayers Union for his voting record in 2013. NTU scored Labrador at 87 percent based on 253 votes on appropriations bills, authorization bills, budget target resolutions, tax bills, amendments and procedural votes that could affect the burden on taxpayers. “It’s an honor to be recognized by groups advocating private-sector solutions to achieve a stronger economy,” Labrador said. “Small business, individual initiative and fiscal restraint are the most vital drivers of the American economy and I will continue to support those values every time I cast a vote.” The awards came in mid-September. Lawmakers who voted favorably on small-business issues at least 70 percent of the time were eligible for the “Guardian of Small Business” award. The threshold for the “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” was 83 percent in the House.                                                                                                                                                 ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355420,Crapo Sets Town Hall Meetings for Southwest Idaho,2014-10-02,2014,2014-10,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"October 02, 2014 Crapo Sets Town Hall Meetings for Southwest Idaho Expands statewide plan for listening sessions Boise - Idaho Senator Mike Crapo is expanding his schedule of town meetings across Idaho later this month in southwest Idaho.  The new schedule will have Crapo meeting directly with Idahoans in meetings stretching from Crouch to Wilder and across southwest Idaho's Treasure Valley region.   ""My plan is to listen to Idahoans at as many town meetings and rural locations as possible when the Senate is not in session,"" Crapo said.  ""We are beginning our schedule in the Idaho Panhandle and moving to southwest Idaho, but that schedule will expand around the state as the schedule permits.  Idahoans offer the common sense to problem-solving that is too often absent in Washington, D.C.""   The first leg of the town meeting schedule begins later this week, with stops in Moyie Springs, Bonners Ferry, Laclede, Sandpoint, Priest River, Rathdrum and Hayden.  Crapo will speak with workers at the Idaho Forest Group Mill in Moyie Springs and deliver the keynote speech during the dedication of the Kootenai Tribe's new Two Rivers Hatchery.    The list of Crapo's town meetings and events in southwest Idaho is below:   Tuesday, October 21:   Kuna:  Kuna City Hall, 763 W. Avalon 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM   Wednesday, October 22:   Boise:  Offers remarks and introduces Keynote Speaker Mitt Romney at the Governor's Trade & Business Conference, Boise Centre on the Grove 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM   Caldwell:  Caldwell Police Department Community Room, 110 S, 5 th Avenue 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM   Wilder:  Wilder Rural Fire Department, 601 Patriot Way 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM   Melba:  Melba Valley Senior Center, 115 Baseline Road 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM   Nampa:  Nampa High School, Little Theater, 203 Lake Lowell Avenue 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM   Thursday, October 23 :   Crouch:  Crouch Community Hall, 1022 Old Crouch Road 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM   Horseshoe Bend:  Horseshoe Bend City Hall, 112 Ada Street Noon - 1:00 PM   Emmett:  Emmett City Hall, Council Chambers, 501 E. Main Street 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM   Weiser:  Weiser Senior Center, 115 E. Main Street 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM   Fruitland:  Fruitland City Hall, Council Chambers, 200 S. Whitley Drive 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM   Friday, October 24:   Idaho City:  Boise Basin Senior Center, 102 Bear Run Road 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM   Garden City:  Garden City Hall, Council Chambers, 6015 N. Glenwood Street 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM   Eagle:  Eagle City Hall, Council Chambers, 660 E. Civic Lane 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM   Star:  Star City Hall, 10769 W. State Street 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM   Saturday, October 25:   Meridian:  Meridian City Hall, Council Chambers, 33. E. Broadway 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355394,Crapo To Hold Town Hall Meetings in Idaho Panhandle During October,2014-09-29,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 29, 2014 Crapo To Hold Town Hall Meetings in Idaho Panhandle During October Senator to hold meeting at forest products mill; offer keynote speech at Kootenai Tribeâ??s fish hatchery dedication Coeur d'Alene - Idaho Senator Mike Crapo announces he will hold a series of seven town hall meetings across the Idaho Panhandle in early October.  Crapo said his goal is to hear directly from Idahoans on a wide range of federal issues that impact Idaho citizens and local communities.   Crapo noted his larger plan is to visit more Idaho towns as his travel in the state permits.  He plans on a series of town hall meeting dates in southwest Idaho later in October.  Those dates and locations have not yet been finalized.   Making this round of Panhandle visits more unique is that some meetings will be held in smaller communities and one in a forest products facility.  Crapo will also offer the keynote speech at the dedication of the Kootenai Tribe's Twin Rivers Fish Hatchery near Moyie Springs.    ""Idahoans bring common sense in resolving issues we need to address back in Washington, D.C.,"" Crapo said.  ""I encourage all Idahoans to try to attend these town hall visits as I schedule them near your community.""   The list of Crapo's town hall meetings and events in the Idaho Panhandle region are below.    Wednesday, October 8:   Moyie Springs:  IFG Forest Products Mill , 3082 Roosevelt Road 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM   Thursday,  October 9:   Bonners Ferry:  Memorial Hall, Boundary County Fairgrounds 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM   Moyie Springs:  Kootenai Tribe Dedication of Twin Rivers Fish Hatchery 1823 Twin Rivers Road 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM   Laclede:  Laclede Community Hall , 24 Moore Loop Road 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM   Sandpoint:  Panhandle State Bank, Second Floor Auditorium, 414 Church Street 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM   Friday, October 10:   Priest River:  Priest River Event Center, 5399 Highway 2 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM   Rathdrum:  Rathdrum City Hall, 8047 W. Main Street Noon to 1:00 PM   Hayden:  Hayden City Hall, 8930 N. Government Way 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM         Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355373,Crapo's Land Settlement Act Passes Senate,2014-09-23,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 23, 2014 Crapo's Land Settlement Act Passes Senate Bill resolves local land disputes dating back to the 1960s Washington, D.C. - Legislation authored by Idaho Senator Mike Crapo to settle local land disputes in southeastern Idaho was passed out of the U.S. Senate by unanimous vote before adjournment for the October work period.  S. 2040, the Blackfoot River Land Settlement Act, seeks to clear up issues related to the ownership of land and water rights dating back to the 1960s when federal flood control projects were undertaken along the Blackfoot River.   ""Thebipartisan action taken by the Senate brings us one step closer to finally securing certainty for a community who has long-sought a practical legislative solution to resolve land ownership claims and water rights issues plaguing the region,"" said Crapo.  ""This bill will provide a clear path forward for not only the Tribes, but for the city and local residents.  I thank Chairman Small and all those who helped champion this collaborative-natured agreement, and look forward to working with my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to ensure this important measure becomes law."" ""We deeply thank Senator Crapo for his work on the bill as well as the work of Senator Risch,"" said Nathan Small, Chairman of the Fort Hall Business Council of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes.   ""The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes are pleased at Senate passage of S. 2040 and our close partnership with the North Bank Landowners and allottees in working together on this legislation.  Due to the re-channelization of the Blackfoot River in the 1960's, Indian allottees, the Tribes, and North Bank landowners lost use of valuable lands along the River for decades due to land title issues created by the re-channelization.  S. 2040 resolves these issues by allowing the parties to exchange these lands so that we can all put these lands to productive use on both sides of the River."" ""We are very pleased with the recent news of the passage of this piece of legislation by the Senate and are hopeful that the House will follow suit,"" said Marion Walker, spokesperson for the Non-Tribal interests.  ""We have been working on this legislative act since 2006.  We are anxious to see it come to a successful conclusion. Deep appreciation is expressed to Senator Crapo, Chairman Small and all those who have championed the passage of this bill.  This is an issue that has been long overdue."" Crapo previously welcomed Chairman Small to Capitol Hill to testify before the Senate Indian Affairs Committee about the legislation and its importance to the region and the Tribes. Specifically, S. 2040, the Blackfoot River Land Settlement Act, provides the following improvements: Embodies the terms of a negotiated settlement between the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, non-Indian litigants and the state of Idaho related to ownership of land and water rights. Extinguishes all claims and all past, present and future rights, title and interest in and to the tribal land and non-Indian land. Places lands located on the north side of the Blackfoot River into a trust and would then transfer the southern tribal land to the Flood Control District, which would in turn compensate the non-Indian landowners through the sale of those lands. The bill, co-sponsored by Idaho Senator Jim Risch, now awaits further consideration from the U.S. House of Representatives. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355364,GAO Confirms CFPB Massive Data Collection,2014-09-22,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 22, 2014 GAO Confirms CFPB Massive Data Collection Report cites weaknesses with data security and privacy Washington, D.C. - Today, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released the results of a comprehensive study confirming that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is collecting financial data on up to 600 million consumer credit card accounts, and that the Bureau's privacy and security controls for data collection should be enhanced to reduce the risk of improper collection, use, or release of consumer financial data.   The report, requested by U.S. Banking Committee Ranking Member Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), documents CFPB's large-scale collection of consumer financial data from 2012 through 2014, confirms the existence of personal identifiers in CFPB's data collections, and raises the concern that CFPB lacks written policies and procedures for data privacy and protection. ""The CFPB's massive data collection effort is an unwarranted, unwelcome intrusion into the private financial lives of millions of Americans,"" Crapo said.  ""This GAO report confirms what the Bureau would not-that it has been collecting information on up to 600 million American financial accounts, and it does not have the proper safeguards in place to protect the information it is collecting.  At a time when data and identity-related crimes are at an all-time high, the last thing the American people need is one more federal agency collecting their private financial information.""   After discovering the CFPB was spending millions of dollars to collect information on millions of Americans' personal credit card, banking, mortgage and student loan information, Crapo began to raise serious concerns with the CFPB's ""big data"" collection.  When the Bureau repeatedly failed to provide sufficient information regarding the data collection, Crapo turned to the non-partisan GAO to investigate, requesting an official review of the CFPB's data collection efforts. Key findings from the GAO report: CFPB has access to account-level credit card data on between 546-596 million consumer accounts on a monthly basis.   This represents consumer data covering 87 percent of the credit card market. (p.28) CFPB conducts large- scale collections on consumer financial data, including data with personal identifiers.  Data includes one-time and monthly collections on automobile sales, consumer credit report information, credit cards, credit scores, mortgages, student loans, and others. See charts here and here .   CFPB lacks written policies and procedures for data privacy.   GAO noted that the CFPB "". . . has not developed standard policies and written procedures to document the practices it uses for anonymizing data, including clarifying how data sensitivity will be assessed. . ."" (p.42)  For example, the CFPB retained sensitive data in two data collections reviewed by GAO, including religious data. (p.42-43) GAO found weaknesses in the Bureau's ability to assess risks and vulnerabilities associated with data security and protection of consumer financial information .  Both the GAO and the CFPB's Inspector General previously found similar weaknesses in a separate report released last year. (p.58) GAO noted that the CFPB and OCC should submit its credit card data collection plan for consultation and approval by the Office of Management and Budget, as required by law.   Without such review, CFPB and OCC lack reasonable assurance that these collections are in compliance with the law. (p.66) ""There are many outstanding questions and concerns following this report,"" Crapo continued.  ""For example, it is still unclear exactly what information the CFPB is collecting, how they are using it, and whether it can be easily reverse-engineered to identify an individual.  I consider these to be very serious concerns at the very agency that was supposed to watch out for consumers, not watch them."" To view a full copy of the GAO report on recommended enhancements for the privacy and security controls for the CFPB's data collection, click HERE .  To view Senator Crapo's original request to the GAO, click HERE . Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=04d2f250-2e17-44e9-ad84-50c1dc36cef6,"Crapo, Risch Vote Against Continuing Resolution Spending Bill",2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,www.risch.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch issued the following statements today after voting against final passage of H.J.Res.124, the Continuing Appropriations Resolution for Fiscal Year 2015: “For far too long, Congress has neglected the critical budget and appropriations process, becoming almost solely reliant on irresponsible stop-gap measures,” said Crapo.  “With our national debt exceeding $17 trillion, Congress can no longer shirk its responsibility to make the hard decisions and fulfill this important function of our federal government.  Allowing funding for federal programs to go unchecked year after year diminishes Congress’ oversight responsibilities and worsens our deteriorating fiscal picture. We must take substantive action now to develop a comprehensive strategy to address our fiscal problems, while also meeting federal responsibilities.  As a nation, we cannot afford to maintain this dangerous status quo.”                                                                                                                             “This bill spends too much, borrows too much and taxes too much,” said Risch.  “We borrow $2.5 billion every day that our children and grandchildren will have to repay.  I cannot in good conscience support it without even an attempt to fix the problem.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=1a018ec4-93e7-4f8c-946d-28c7fe0fd93a,"Risch, Crapo Both Named 'Taxpayers' Friend'",2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,www.risch.senate.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.  – Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch have earned the rating “Taxpayers’ Friend” from the National Taxpayers Union, a nonprofit and nonpartisan citizen group dedicated to lower taxes, limited government and economic freedom.  The group issues annual ratings for the U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives and individual members of both chambers. Both Crapo and Risch earned an “A” rating, as did Idaho overall.  Other Senate delegations receiving “A” ratings included Oklahoma and Texas.  The National Taxpayers Union (NTU) gave the Senate an overall failing grade as 45 members “earned” an “F” rating on the scorecard of votes.  The NTU says it takes into account every roll call vote affecting fiscal policy, including appropriations, authorization votes, budget resolutions and procedural votes. “It is disturbing to see nearly half the members of the Senate receive a failing grade, but with Americans facing nearly $18 trillion in debt handed to them by Congress’ reckless tax and spend policies, it is a sign of both the lack of fiscal responsibility and the failure to find bipartisan agreement on critical issues like tax reform,” said Crapo, a member of the Senate Finance Committee, which oversees tax policy; the Senate Budget Committee, and the “Gang of Six,” which sought bipartisan approval for elements of the Simpson-Bowles federal deficit reduction plan. ""I am proud to be named as a ""Taxpayers’ Friend"" another year in a row,"" said Risch. ""Given the historic spending crisis and amount of debt our nation faces, saving money and eliminating waste is always a top priority. The best way to strengthen families, grow businesses and boost our national economy is to let taxpayers keep more of their money."" “With Big Spenders outnumbering Taxpayers’ Friends by a nearly four to one ratio in Congress, limited government was definitely item one on the legislative to-do list in 2013,” NTU President Pete Sepp noted.  “Going forward, the Senate in particular will have to take a more positive attitude toward getting results for taxpayers in order for our country to overcome the massive debt and tax burdens still holding the economy back.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=924,"LABRADOR GUN RANGE, GEOTHERMAL BILLS ADVANCE",2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   FOR MORE INFORMATION: Thursday | September 18, 2014 Dan Popkey – 208-800-1565   LABRADOR GUN RANGE, GEOTHERMAL BILLS ADVANCE Four bills authored by Congressman Labrador have now been approved by the Natural Resources panel WASHINGTON, D.C. – Two bills authored by Rep. Raúl Labrador cleared the House Natural Resources Committee on Thursday, offering solutions to regulatory burdens affecting constituents and industry in Idaho.  The committee passed H.R. 5040 the Idaho County Shooting Range Land Conveyance Act. The bill would convey 31 acres of Bureau of Land Management land to Idaho County for use as a gun range. This gun range would provide accessible firearms training for Idaho County residents, recreational opportunities for families and a convenient training facility for the Idaho County Sheriff’s Department. The Idaho County Commissioners have agreed to manage the land as a shooting range and work closely with local law enforcement to provide all necessary maintenance.  “As a matter of principle, the government closest to the people is the one that governs best,” Labrador said. “For years, the Idaho County Commission has been ready to install a gun range in the Riggins area. Because of cumbersome BLM regulations, they have been unable to acquire the necessary land. Idaho County residents deserve to have a safe location for recreational firearms use and this solution is long overdue.” The committee also passed H.R. 1363, the Exploring for Geothermal Energy on Federal Lands Act. The legislation removes federal barriers to geothermal energy exploration while limiting environmental impact. It will allow for the development of clean geothermal energy resources on federal lands that will create jobs and provide low-cost energy to American families. In Idaho alone, geothermal energy has the potential to generate more than 800 megawatts. That’s enough energy to power more than 500,000 homes. “Idaho has an abundance of geothermal potential that is unavailable due to bureaucratic impediments,” Labrador said. “Idaho has a unique history of developing geothermal energy. I served in the Idaho Legislature where our 100-year-old Statehouse is heated with geothermal energy, as are many Downtown Boise office buildings, homes near Warm Springs Avenue and part of the Boise State University campus. We need to harness this clean, renewable and reliable form of energy.” Both bills now move to the full House of Representatives for consideration.  Earlier in the 113th Congress, the Natural Resources Committee approved two other bills sponsored by Labrador: H.R. 657, the Grazing Improvement Act and H.R. 1294, the Self-Sufficient Community Lands Act. Both bills passed the full House of Representatives and await Senate consideration.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140919004424/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=a7c879dc-c91c-4ad3-b53c-0ddb9769b319,"Risch, Crapo Vote against Obama Proposal to Aid Syrian Rebels",2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo today voted against President Obama’s proposal to provide aid that would arm so-called Syrian “moderate rebels” to combat the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS). “I have real reservations about choosing from over 200 different ethnic and religious groups within Syria and arming those that are labeled ‘moderate’ by some in our government,” said Risch.  “I am not convinced there is a group of ‘moderate’ rebels in Syria.  There is no easy choice here, but President Obama has not laid out a clear strategy, instead the strategy I have seen is not in my opinion destined to succeed, but drag us further into the mire.  I want to support a winning strategy, but I cannot support his $500 million proposal without a better plan.” “ISIS poses a very real threat to the United States and our national security,” said Crapo.  “The President’s announced action leaves many questions for the American people and Congress.   Unless the Administration provides more details about a comprehensive strategy, I cannot support it.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355347,"Crapo, Risch Both Named 'Taxpayers' Friend'",2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 18, 2014 Crapo, Risch Both Named 'Taxpayers' Friend' Earn â??Aâ?? ratings from the National Taxpayer Union Washington, D.C.  - Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch have earned the rating ""Taxpayers' Friend"" from the National Taxpayers Union, a nonprofit and nonpartisan citizen group dedicated to lower taxes, limited government and economic freedom.  The group issues annual ratings for the U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives and individual members of both chambers.   Both Crapo and Risch earned an ""A"" rating, as did Idaho overall.  Other Senate delegations receiving ""A"" ratings included Oklahoma and Texas.  The National Taxpayers Union (NTU) gave the Senate an overall failing grade as 45 members ""earned"" an ""F"" rating on the scorecard of votes.  The NTU says it takes into account every roll call vote affecting fiscal policy, including appropriations, authorization votes, budget resolutions and procedural votes.   ""It is disturbing to see nearly half the members of the Senate receive a failing grade, but with Americans facing nearly $18 trillion indebt handed to them by Congress' reckless tax and spend policies, it is a sign of both the lack of fiscal responsibility and the failure to find bipartisan agreement on critical issues like tax reform,"" said Crapo, a member of the Senate Finance Committee, which oversees tax policy; the Senate Budget Committee, and the ""Gang of Six,"" which sought bipartisan approval for elements of the Simpson-Bowles federal deficit reduction plan.   ""I am proud to be named as a ""Taxpayers' Friend"" another year in a row,"" said Risch. ""Given the historic spending crisis and amount of debt our nation faces, saving money and eliminating waste is always a top priority. The best way to strengthen families, grow businesses and boost our national economy is to let taxpayers keep more of their money.""   ""With Big Spenders outnumbering Taxpayers' Friends by a nearly four to one ratio in Congress, limited government was definitely item one on the legislative to-do list in 2013,"" NTU President Pete Sepp noted.  ""Going forward, the Senate in particular will have to take a more positive attitude toward getting results for taxpayers in order for our country to overcome the massive debt and tax burdens still holding the economy back.""   Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355353,"Crapo, Risch Vote Against Continuing Resolution Spending Bill",2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 18, 2014 Crapo, Risch Vote Against Continuing Resolution Spending Bill Senators say measure only perpetuates Washingtonâ??s budget mismanagement Washington, D.C. - Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch issued the following statements today after voting against final passage of H.J.Res.124, the Continuing Appropriations Resolution for Fiscal Year 2015: ""For far too long, Congress has neglected the critical budgetand appropriations process, becoming almost solely reliant on irresponsible stop-gap measures,"" said Crapo.  ""With our national debt exceeding $17 trillion, Congress can no longer shirk its responsibility to make the hard decisions and fulfill this important function of our federal government.  Allowing funding for federal programs to go unchecked year after year diminishes Congress' oversight responsibilities and worsens our deteriorating fiscal picture. We must take substantive action now to develop a comprehensive strategy to address our fiscal problems, while also meeting federal responsibilities.  As a nation, we cannot afford to maintain this dangerous status quo.""  ""This bill spends too much, borrows too much and taxes too much,"" said Risch.  ""We borrow $2.5 billion every day that our children and grandchildren will have to repay.  I cannot in good conscience support it without even an attempt to fix the problem."" Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355354,"Crapo, Risch Vote against Obama Proposal to Aid Syrian Rebels",2014-09-18,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 18, 2014 Crapo, Risch Vote against Obama Proposal to Aid Syrian Rebels Voted against language in temporary spending bill Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch today voted against President Obama's proposal to provide aid that would arm so-called Syrian ""moderate rebels"" to combat the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS). This proposal was included as part of the continuing resolution that would fund the government through December 11, 2014. ""ISIS poses a very real threat to the United States and our national security,"" said Crapo.  ""The President's announced action leaves many questions for the American people and Congress.   Unless the Administration provides more details about a comprehensive strategy, I cannot support it."" ""I have real reservations about choosing from over 200 different ethnic and religious groups within Syria and arming those that are labeled ""moderate"" by some in our government,"" said Risch.  ""I am not convinced there is a group of moderate rebels in Syria anymore, period.  There is no easy choice here, but President Obama has not laid out a clear strategy, instead the strategy I have seen is not in my opinion destined to succeed, but drag us further into the mire.  I want to support a winning strategy, but I cannot support his $500 million proposal to aid these groups without a better plan."" Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=922,"Labrador, Johnson introduce bipartisan bill demilitarizing police",2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   FOR MORE INFORMATION: Tuesday | September 16, 2014 Dan Popkey (Labrador) – 208-800-1565 Andy Phelan (Johnson) 404-593-9125     REPS. LABRADOR AND JOHNSON INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO DEMILITARIZE POLICE Members of Congress move to reform program that gives military-grade weapons to local law enforcement departments WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Reps. Raul Labrador (R-ID) and Hank Johnson (D-GA) introduced the bipartisan Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act of 2014, H.R. 5478, which would place restrictions and transparency measures on the Department of Defense program that transfers surplus military equipment to state and local law enforcement agencies. “Our nation was founded on the principle of a clear line between the military and civilian policing,” Labrador said. “The Pentagon’s current surplus property program blurs that line by introducing a military model of overwhelming force in our cities and towns. Our bill would restore the focus of local law enforcement on protecting citizens and providing due process for the accused.” Under the Pentagon’s “1033” program, the Department of Defense has provided $4.2 billion in surplus military equipment – often from warzones in Iraq and Afghanistan – to state and local law enforcement agencies without charge. Recently, a large number of small towns have been given tank-like Mine Resistant, Ambush-Protected vehicles (MRAPs). Many others have received grenade launchers and high-caliber assault rifles. Even college campus police are receiving advanced equipment and weaponry. While vital in war, much of this equipment is not suited for civilian law enforcement. “Militarizing America’s main streets won’t make us any safer, just more fearful and more reticent,” Johnson said. “Before another small town's police force gets a $700,000 gift from the Defense Department that it can't maintain or manage, it behooves us to press pause on the Pentagon's 1033 program and revisit the merits of a militarized America.” The Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act would:  ·         Prevent transfers of equipment inappropriate for local policing, such as high-caliber weapons, long-range acoustic devices, grenade launchers, weaponized drones, armored vehicles, and grenades or similar explosives. ·         End incentives to use equipment in circumstances when the use is unnecessary. Under the 1033 program, local police are required to use the equipment within a year, incentivizing towns to use it in inappropriate circumstances. ·         Require that recipients certify that they can account for all equipment. In 2012, the weapons portion of the 1033 program was temporarily suspended after DOD found that a local sheriff had gifted out army-surplus Humvees and other supplies. This bill would prohibit re-gifting and require recipients to account for all equipment received from DOD. The  bill adds requirements to enforce tracking mechanisms that keep up with and control transfers of the equipment, implement policies ensuring that police agencies can’t surplus the equipment for resale and define drones more clearly. Original co-sponsors are: Reps. Justin Amash (R-MI), Tom McClintock (R-CA), John Conyers (D-MI), and Jim Moran (D-VA).   ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=923,"LABRADOR VOTES AGAINST MILITARY AID FOR SYRIAN REBELS, CALLS FOR JUSTICE FOR MURDERED AMERICANS",2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   FOR MORE INFORMATION: Wednesday | September 17, 2014 Dan Popkey– 208-800-1565       LABRADOR VOTES AGAINST MILITARY AID FOR SYRIAN REBELS, CALLS FOR JUSTICE FOR MURDERED AMERICANS WASHINGTON, DC—Rep. Raúl Labrador (R-ID) today voted against President Obama’s proposal to provide training and weapons to “moderate” rebel forces opposed to the Assad regime in Syria. Rep. Labrador issued the following statement:  “Like all Americans, I am outraged and saddened by the murder of two Americans by ISIS. I would support a targeted operation to hunt down the killers and win justice for the victims and their families. Instead, the president has engaged in a broad intervention without congressional approval and sought authority to arm Syrian rebels whose primary interest is removing President Assad. “As I warned last year, regime change could lead to a worse outcome for America. While Assad is a brutal dictator, I still believe backing rebels allied with al-Qaeda and on the same side as ISIS in this civil war likely would bring to power even worse elements in Syria. Our focus should not be on resolving an age-old religious civil war, but on bringing to justice those who took the lives of our citizens.”   ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918204958/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=870cfda0-5b84-421e-bc13-0d9648a80351,Seekins Precision in Lewiston Named Small Business of the Month,2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - In recognition of their tremendous efforts and years of success, U.S. Senator Jim Risch has named Seekins Precision as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for September.  The company will be recognized in the Congressional Record of the United States Senate. “I am pleased to recognize Seekins Precision as an outstanding Idaho small business,” said Sen. Risch. “Locally owned and operated, Seekins Precision builds innovative products for precision shooters.  Seekins Precision is a true illustration of the American Dream, having grown and adapted for the past 10 years. It all started out of Glen and Katie Seekins’ garage and since then the business has expanded from manufacturing original scope rings with just a handful of employees, to developing over ten major upper-end rifle lines and creating over 25 new jobs.  I congratulate everyone at Seekins Precision on their success and wish them the very best in their future growth, both domestically and internationally.” Founded in 2004 as a start-up company, Seekins Precision provides some of the finest quality rifle products available in the nation.  In January, the small business participated in the Shooting Hunting Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show and Conference in Las Vegas, the largest annual trade show for recreation technology professionals and the world’s premier exposition of combined firearms.  Participation in the SHOT Show exposed Seekins Precision to buyers from all 50 states and more than 100 countries.  Their commitment to high-quality products and customer service has enabled them to adapt to constant changes in a unique marketplace. Seekins Precision is a great example of the small business spirit that drives Idaho’s economy. Senator Risch is the highest ranking Republican on the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.  The committee oversees proposed legislation on matters relating to entrepreneurship and provides oversight of the Small Business Administration.  They also research, investigate and report all problems relating to American’s small businesses to the full Senate. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355344,"Crapo Welcomes Fall 2014 Interns to Washington, Boise Offices",2014-09-17,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 17, 2014 Crapo Welcomes Fall 2014 Interns to Washington, Boise Offices Idaho students to gain firsthand knowledge about the legislative process Idaho Senator Mike Crapo welcomes six new interns in his Boise regional office and his Capitol office in Washington, D.C.  These Idaho students will gain firsthand knowledge about the legislative process and the federal government while exploring possible career options.  Interns provide critical assistance to the Senator and his staff in serving the people of Idaho by conducting legislative research, providing administrative support, helping in communications operations, attending congressional hearings and giving tours of the U.S. Capitol to visiting Idahoans and their families. Washington, D.C. Devin Cobia, a Sugar City native, recently earned his degree in accounting from BYU-Idaho.  Devin enjoys staying active on Idaho's many hiking trails, and plans on continuing his education in business school. Audrey Mearns, recently earned a Communications degree from Boise State University.  Audrey, a multi-sport enthusiast, is a San Ramon, California native.  She hopes to pursue a career in communications on Capitol Hill. Brandon Huffaker, a Lewiston native, will be entering his senior year at BYU-Idaho where he will earn a Political Science degree.  Brandon spends his spare time camping and enjoying the Idaho outdoors with his wife and daughter.  He hopes to pursue a career on Capitol Hill. Kailamai Hansen, a Coeur d' Alene native, is a junior at Lewis-Clark State College where she will earn a degree in Business Administration.  She enjoys volunteering, camping, traveling and writing.  Kailamai wants to make an impact in her community and hopes to attend law school and become an advocate for at-risk children. Boise Daniel Keough, a Sandpoint native, is in his final semester at Boise State University where he will graduate with a Political Science degree in December.  Daniel speaks Spanish fluently and has a keen interest in international relations, having gained foreign policy experience completing an internship with the U.S. Department of State at the Consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Montevideo, Uruguay.  In his spare time, Daniel enjoys hiking, biking and reading.  He hopes to continue his education and find work crafting foreign policy or working with political organizations in Latin America. Mitchell Jensen, a Blackfoot native, is currently a junior at Boise State University studying Political Science.  Mitchell is a shooting enthusiast and enjoys relaxing in Idaho's secluded wilderness.  After his undergraduate studies, Mitchell is planning to attend law school.   Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140918204959/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=6d71cbf6-3bbd-4355-a81b-c8cbbc9513d8,"Risch Celebrates National Lab Day, Launches Senate National Laboratory Caucus",2014-09-16,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jim Risch today welcomed Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz for National Lab Day on Capitol Hill. Risch also joined with Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) to formally launch the Senate National Laboratory Caucus, which aims to increase awareness of the reach of the national labs as leaders in developing new breakthrough technologies and discoveries to address some of our nation’s most pressing challenges. “From coast to coast, the Department of Energy’s national laboratories contribute groundbreaking scientific research in a number of disciplines, including energy innovation, national security, and basic research,” said Risch.  “In order to conduct this research, our national labs are equipped with unique assets – be it their location, one-of-a-kind instruments and, most importantly, the world’s leading scientists. My home state is fortunate to have the Idaho National Laboratory located in Idaho Falls, the nation's lead nuclear laboratory and a world leader in securing the ever-growing cyber network.  I am glad to have the opportunity to join with Senator Durbin in co-chairing the Senate National Laboratory Caucus and furthering support for our national labs in the United States Senate.” “The National Labs continue to advance science, clean energy and nuclear security in this country, as they have for decades,” said Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz. “The Labs also provide essential capabilities for university and industrial researchers – nearly 30,000 per year – and advance technology frontiers, such as high performance computing and advanced manufacturing.” The Idaho National Lab played a major role in National Lab Day, joining with directors and representatives from the other sixteen Department of Energy National Labs to showcase demonstration projects across five theme areas – energy innovation and environmental sustainability, manufacturing innovations, high performance computing, national security, and discovery science. Video of Risch’s opening remarks at National Lab Day can be found on YouTube or through a high resolution file of the video, which can be downloaded via FTP. Links are below. YouTube: National Lab Day Remarks FTP: National Lab Day Remarks ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355319,Crapo Spring Internships Available,2014-09-16,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 16, 2014 Crapo Spring Internships Available Deadline to apply is October 15 Washington, D.C.-The deadline is rapidly approaching for Idaho's students to apply for internship opportunities in U.S. Senator Mike Crapo's Washington, D.C., office, or one of his six regional offices throughout Idaho.  Students have until October 15, to submit an application to be considered for an internship position for the upcoming spring semester. ""As a former Capitol Hill intern, I recognize the invaluable role internships play in professional development,"" said Crapo.  ""This opportunity provides an avenue for Idaho's students to learn more about the legislative process firsthand while gaining important skills that will translate into valuable experience for any future endeavor."" Interns play an integral role in the Senator's offices, assisting with legislative research, constituent services and communications operations, as well as attending congressional hearings and providing tours of the U.S. Capitol to visiting Idahoans.  Students in all areas of study are strongly encouraged to apply. To learn more about internships offered through Crapo's office and access application materials, please visit the intern section of the website at https://www.crapo.senate.gov/services/interns.cfm.  Due to unanticipated delays in mail delivery on Capitol Hill, students who are applying are encouraged to email, not mail, their materials to Crapo's D.C.office.  Applications can be addressed to the attention of Rosie Brinckerhoff, Internship Coordinator, and emailed to  Rosie_Brinckerhoff@crapo.senate.gov. Further questions can be directed to the intern coordinator in the Washington, D.C., office, 202-224-6142. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355318,Crapo To Host Statewide Tele-Townhall Meeting,2014-09-15,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 15, 2014 Crapo To Host Statewide Tele-Townhall Meeting Invites Idahoans to join discussion on September 17 Washington, D.C.- Idaho Senator Mike Crapo will host his third tele-townhall meeting of 2014 and is encouraging Idahoans to participate.  Crapo will take questions from Idahoans on a variety of topics currently being debated in Congress, including new U.S. Environmental Protection Agency efforts to increase federal control over state waters, the economy and the President's Middle East strategy to defeat ISIS during the hour-long call.  The teleforum will take place on Wednesday, September 17, 7:00 PM Mountain Time/6:00 PM Pacific Time. To sign up for the teleforum, please visit Senator Crapo's official website, www.crapo.senate.gov, and click the tele-townhall icon on the right side of the homepage under the Action Center.  This link will direct users to the tele-townhall section of the website, where a sign up box is located in the middle of the page.  You may also click here to be taken directly to the tele-town hall page.  The deadline to register to ensure participation is Wednesday, September 17, 1:00 PM Mountain Time/ 12:00 PM Pacific Time. All that is needed to participate is a telephone.  Joining the call is voluntary, and listeners are given an opportunity to ask Crapo about topics regarding federal policies and legislation.  Those who have signed up in advance will receive an automated phone call just before the tele-townhall begins and will receive instructions on how to participate. This is Crapo's third of four scheduled tele-townhalls for 2014.  The schedule for the remaining tele-townhall is listed below, tentatively set for 7:00 PM Mountain Time/6:00 PM Pacific Time: December 10, 2014. Following the call, an audio file (MP3) of the full call will be posted under the tele-townhall section of Crapo's official website.  To listen to previous tele-townhall meetings, click here. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=393182,House Takes Action to Allow Americans to Keep Current Health Insurance Plans,2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today supported passage of H.R. 3522, the Employee Health Care Protection Act.  This bill would allow employees to keep their work sponsored health plans by ensuring that existing group health plans can continue to be sold through 2019.  It passed the House 247 to 167. Last year, millions of plans in the individual insurance market were cancelled due to Obamacare mandates.  Now, as many as 50 million workers with full coverage could face cancellation or disruption because their work sponsored plans would not meet new minimal essential coverage requirements. H.R. 3522 ensures that group health plans that were offered in 2013 remain available and allows small businesses and their employees to purchase these plans regardless of whether they were on them in 2013.  The Administration has provided limited relief for group plans that do not comply with Obamacare, but that relief only lasts through 2016. This bill would extend that opportunity to those not previously on such plans, and add three years of reprieve. The bill expands on the “Keep Your Health Plan Act of 2013,” which applied to individual market plans, and allowed individuals to keep their plans.  That bill passed the House late last year. “The President repeatedly promised that if Americans liked their health plans, they could keep them,” Said Congressman Simpson. “We now know that is not true. This bill would allow the Administration to start making good on that promise and also allow for more affordable coverage options to remain available to more Americans.” The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355304,"Crapo On ISIS Threat, 9-11 Anniversary",2014-09-11,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 11, 2014 Crapo On ISIS Threat, 9-11 Anniversary Reacts to Presidential address, 13-year anniversary of 9-11 attacks Washington, D.C.  - Idaho Senator Mike Crapo issued the following statement today regarding President Obama's new Middle East strategy to defeat ISIS, noting the continued threat which struck the U.S. on September 11, 2001: ""Having repeatedly overlooked the warnings and advice of senior officials and military leaders, President Obama has now signaled that he concedes the dangers posed by ISIS.  Going forward, Idahoans and Americans expect a strategy to protect our national security interests, includingpossible threats to our own border security, with clear goals and the tools necessary to succeed.  Unfortunately, the President's plans to date have mismanaged our Middle East strategy and shunned our allies, allowing the scourge of ISIS to take root in Iraq and Syria.  On this anniversary of 9/11, we must remember the loss of so many Idahoans and other Americans who have perished on that dark day in 2001 and in the years since.  We must prevent this from happening again.  The Administration must effectively implement the necessary actions to achieve this goal."" MEDIA NOTE:  Video and audio are available on Crapo's YouTube Channel here. To download the original file, click here: CRAPO_ISIS_091114.mp4 Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=392951,Simpson Praises Passage of Water Protection Act,2014-09-09,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored and supported final passage of H.R. 5078, the Waters of the United States Regulatory Overreach Protection Act, that supports the existing partnership between states and the federal government by preventing EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers from redefining “waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act. This bill addresses widespread concerns with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new proposed rule expanding its jurisdiction over water throughout the country. H.R. 5078 passed the House with a bipartisan vote 262-152. Simpson, who has long been a leader on this issue, included language in his FY2015 House Energy and Water Appropriations Act and authored language in the FY2015 House Interior and Environment Appropriations Act to prohibit the agencies from finalizing a rule on this issue, which the agencies proposed earlier this year. “The EPA’s efforts to expand its jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act by redefining waters of the U.S. have, not surprisingly, resulted in widespread uncertainty and deep concern for the agriculture sector in our state,” said Simpson.  “I’m pleased that Congress has acted on this issue to recognize the existing and successful partnerships between states, land users, conservationists, and the federal government and stop the Obama Administration from expanding its jurisdiction over water throughout the U.S.” H.R. 5078 is now under consideration by the U.S. Senate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=921,LABRADOR PRAISES PASSAGE OF LEGISLATION TO CURB EPA OVERREACH,2014-09-09,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   FOR MORE INFORMATION: Tuesday | September 9, 2014 Dan Popkey or Doug Taylor 208-888-3188                                    LABRADOR PRAISES PASSAGE OF LEGISLATION TO CURB EPA OVERREACH   WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Raúl Labrador (R-ID) lauded passage of H.R. 5078, the Waters of the United States Regulatory Overreach Protection Act, which prevents the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Army Corp of Engineers from expanding their regulatory jurisdiction over waters under the Clean Water Act.  Rep. Labrador is a cosponsor of the legislation. “Today was a positive step forward in limiting overreach by the federal government.  I’ve always advocated for a state’s right to regulate waters within its borders and a limited role for the federal government, ” said Rep. Labrador.  “This legislation moves us closer to achieving this goal.” H.R. 5078 prohibits the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the EPA from implementing a new rule to expand their jurisdiction over state waters under the Clean Water Act.  The bill would require these agencies to consult with State and local officials as they develop new regulatory proposals.  H.R. 5078 passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 262-152 today, and will now be referred to the Senate for consideration.  ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=392777,Simpson Bill to Authorize Facilities Maintenance on Salmon River Passes House,2014-09-08,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Legislation authored by Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson that would authorize important but routine maintenance at Smith Gulch on the Salmon River in Idaho has passed the House of Representatives by a vote of 398 to 1.  H.R. 4283 would allow the use of limited maintenance equipment needed to maintain the routine functions and safety of the existing lodge. “This legislation clarifies Congress’ intent of the 2004 amendments to the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act which continued the existing use and occupancy of commercial services in this corridor of the Salmon River,” Simpson said. “The use of maintenance equipment would allow the lodge to eliminate the reliance on outdated energy sources and replace them with modest renewable energy sources, all while complying with existing laws.” Currently, the Forest Service does not believe it has clear authorization to permit the use of the equipment necessary for the general upkeep of the facilities at the lodge. This bill clarifies the authorization so the corridor can be managed as it was intended under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. H.R. 4283 will now move to the U.S. Senate for consideration.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140912005000/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=ed0f25ae-3424-4c71-8fe8-861425edb0b7,Risch Praises Military Child of the Year from Idaho,2014-09-08,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jim Risch today praised Collin Squires of Lewisville for being named one of just four Military Children of the Year in the entire United States by Our Military Kids, Inc., a nonprofit organization created to provide support and recognition to military children. Risch joined Collin and his mother Rebecca Squires at an Our Military Kids, Inc. event in Washington, D.C. Collin was honored as a Child of the Year for his musical achievements that were made possible by grants received from Our Military Kids during his father’s deployments overseas with the Air Force Reserve. The grants paid for fees associated with piano and guitar lessons. “Collin is an exceptionally bright and talented young Idahoan,” said Risch. “It was a privilege to spend time with him and his mother and to learn more about their family’s story. I’m grateful for the sacrifices they make as Collin’s dad serves in the Air Force Reserve in Idaho, having been deployed four times, and proud of Collin’s considerable achievements.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140912005004/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=a4f7a3b4-d36e-4e53-85f8-b91af0f04e34,Risch Statement on Passing of Jacque Batt,2014-09-08,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jim Risch and former First Lady Vicki Risch issued the following statement regarding the passing of Jacque Batt, the wife of former Governor Phil Batt: “Vicki and I express our heartfelt condolences to Phil and the entire Batt family for the loss of former First Lady Jacque Batt.  Jacque loved our great state. She will be dearly missed.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355278,"Crapo, Johnson on Housing Finance Reform Legislation CBO Score",2014-09-08,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 08, 2014 Crapo, Johnson on Housing Finance Reform Legislation CBO Score Washington, DC - Last week, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released a score for S. 1217, the Housing Finance Reform and Taxpayer Protection Act of 2013, which estimates a cost savings to the government of $60 billion over a ten-year period. This legislation, drafted by Chairman Johnson and Ranking Member Crapo to stabilize the housing finance market and strengthen the economy, passed the Senate Banking Committee in May. ""After the housing crisis we experienced, it is clear that our housing finance system needs to be reformed,"" said Chairman Johnson. ""The significant savings expected by the score from CBO reaffirms that S. 1217 is designed to protect the American taxpayer and restore faith in the American dream of homeownership."" ""It is essential that Congress act as soon as possible to reform our country's housing finance system,"" Ranking Member Crapo said. ""This CBO score demonstrates that our strong, bipartisan legislation will have a positive impact on economic growth, contribute to deficit reduction, increase private sector involvement in the housing finance market, and ensure that taxpayers are protected going forward."" The legislation approved by the Committee in May builds on S. 1217 as introduced, a bill put forward by Senators Corker, Warner and a bipartisan group of eight other Committee members, and it incorporates many ideas generated by an in-depth series of hearings and briefings hosted by the Committee last fall and winter. The legislation winds down and eliminates Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (GSEs) and allows for a diverse set of private entities to step in and replace most of the functions of the government sponsored enterprises. The new system will be regulated by the modernized and streamlined Federal Mortgage Insurance Corporation (FMIC), modeled in part after the FDIC. It also creates a reinsurance fund, known as the Mortgage Insurance Fund, to protect taxpayers. The new system establishes a type of mortgage-backed security with an explicit government backstop and 10% first loss private secondary-market capital to absorb losses and protect taxpayers from future bailouts. Small lenders will have multiple access points to the secondary mortgage market, including the option to sell their individual loans through a new small lender mutual. The mutual will be jointly owned by small lenders, providing community banks, credit unions, and other small lenders direct access to the secondary market so that they will not be at the mercy of their larger competitors when Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are dissolved. Lastly, the new system provides certainty to investors and homeowners through standardization and improved market liquidity. According to the CBO report, FMIC would charge fees on the underlying mortgages to guarantee the payment of principal and interest to investors in eligible Mortgage Backed Securities and would require private capital to absorb some losses before federal payments would occur. Because of this, CBO expects that the government would take on less risk under FMIC guarantees than it would from continued operation of the GSEs under current law and thereby incur smaller costs, and also estimates that enacting S.1217 would reduce direct spending by $60 billion over the 2015-2024 period. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355279,"Crapo on the Passing of Former Idaho First Lady Jacque Batt",2014-09-08,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"September 08, 2014 Crapo on the Passing of Former Idaho First Lady Jacque Batt Washington, D.C. -Idaho Senator Mike Crapo issued the following statement today on the passing of former Idaho First Lady Jacque Batt: ""I offer Governor Batt, the family and all those who had the privilege of knowing Jacque my deepest sympathy and kindest thoughts as they remember and celebrate the life of one of Idaho's finest First Ladies.  Jacque's kind spirit and effortless ability to lead with grace during her tenure as Idaho's First Lady in the 1990s left an everlasting mark on those who had the opportunity to meet and associate with her.  I know that many others share my prayers on behalf of the Batt family during this time."" Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=918,"Labrador issues statement calling for debate, vote before further military action against ISIS",2014-09-05,2014,2014-09,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   FOR MORE INFORMATION: Thursday | September 4, 2014 Dan Popkey – 208-800-1565 (cell)  208-888-3188 (desk)       LABRADOR CALLS FOR DEBATE, VOTE BEFORE FURTHER MILITARY ACTION AGAINST ISIS MERIDIAN, Idaho —Rep. Raúl Labrador (R-ID) called for an open debate and a public vote before pursuing further U.S. military engagement against the Islamic State (ISIS). With Congress set to return to Washington next week, Rep. Labrador issued the following statement: “The acts committed by ISIS are abhorrent and should be condemned by all civilized people. Under our Constitution, the president needs congressional authorization to engage in war. As members of Congress, we must be more than a rubber stamp for the president’s military actions. Before we commit additional U.S. assets and lives to this fight, Americans deserve an open debate and public vote. “If the president believes further military action is required against ISIS, he should present his case to Congress. To justify the most solemn action a member of Congress can take, I must be convinced that ISIS poses a direct threat to the United States, that the mission is well-defined, that there is an exit strategy and that our nationis committed to finishing the job. “If we conclude that aggressive intervention is necessary, it must be targeted, specific to the threat and of limited duration. As Congress returns to Washington, I urge the leadership of both parties to allow a full and deliberate debate on this matter.”   ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355246,"Idaho Delegation Urges Prompt Consideration of Agriculture Disaster Declarations",2014-08-28,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"August 29, 2014 Idaho Delegation Urges Prompt Consideration of Agriculture Disaster Declarations August storms damage crops in multiple Idaho regions Twin Falls, Idaho - Heavy and poorly timed August rain storms in the Magic Valley and eastern Idaho have caused significant damage to crops in the region, primarily wheat, barley and hay.  For example, the Twin Falls County Emergency Board notes that more than fifty percent of the value of the grain crop has likely been lost due to the rain and economic losses are estimated to exceed $11 million for that county alone.  In northern Idaho, a severe hail storm damaged significant acreage of grain on the Weippe Prairie.   Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch and Idaho Congressmen Mike Simpson and Raúl Labrador  are again emphasizing their support for Idaho farmers by encouraging the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to promptly review pending disaster declarations requested by Idaho counties.  In a letter to the Secretary of Agriculture Thomas Vilsack, the delegation emphasized the extent of weather-related crop damage and encouraged the agency to promptly review and approve disaster requests.  To date, Twin Falls, Jerome, and Clearwater counties have requested disaster declarations, and others may be submitting additional requests in the near future.  If approved, such declarations would make eligible producers within those and neighboring counties qualified for emergency low interest loans from the USDA. The complete text of the letter can be found below.     Dear Secretary Vilsack:   Severe and uncharacteristic weather has occurred in various locations in Idaho during the month of August.  The result of these storms is adding up to significant losses for farmers.  In multiple locations, excessive rainfall late in the summer amounted to several inches more than what is normal for the region.  These severe rain events could not have come at a worse time as mature wheat and barley crops were nearing harvest.  Other crops, such as hay, peas and beans, have been adversely impacted as well.  In response to these weather events, local Farm Service Agency officials have been working with affected producers to document damage and losses and, in some cases, have requested secretarial disaster declarations for the most affected areas to provide additional opportunities for relief.   Agriculture is a central pillar of Idaho's economy and the late summer rains have been very problematic for producers.  For example, the Twin Falls County Emergency Board notes that more than fifty percent of the value of the county's grain crop has likely been lost due to the rain.  Additionally, ninety-five percent of the barley in this area is grown for malting purposes.  However, the excessive August rainfall has caused sprout damage that is making much of the barley crop only suitable for lower priced animal feed.  The Twin Falls County Farm Service Agency states that early economic loss estimates total $12.8 million for that county alone.  Similar situations are occurring for farmers elsewhere in Idaho.     It is clear that these weather events have had a destructive impact on many important agriculture regions in Idaho, making the farm safety net all the more important at this time.  Twin Falls, Jerome and Clearwater counties have already submitted requests for disaster declarations due to adverse weather.  It is our understanding more counties in Idaho may be requesting disaster declarations in the near future and it is our hope that you will promptly review and grant these declarations so our farmers and rural communities may begin to recover as soon as possible.  As affected counties continue the effort to assess, document and report damage, we appreciate the ongoing assistance and resources provided by your agency.        Should you have any questions regarding this or any other matter, please do not hesitate to contact us.   Thank you for your consideration. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355233,Crapo Veterans Survey Passes 700 Mark,2014-08-25,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"August 25, 2014 Crapo Veterans Survey Passes 700 Mark Senator seeks input as he meets with service members around Idaho Washington, D.C.  - More than 700 veterans, their family members and friends, have now responded to a new effort to gather information about veterans care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and other federal programs administered in Idaho.  Idaho Senator Mike Crapo announced the survey on August 5 th and it runs through the end of September.    Crapo has met personally with hundreds of veterans and veterans advocacy groups during the August state work period in Idaho.  ""We have voted to increase the commitment to veterans regarding health care and other programs; now it is up to the federal agencies to act and I appreciate the willingness of Idaho's veterans to assist us in tracking the care and service they receive,"" Crapo said.  ""These veterans have given so much of themselves and we must ensure that the nation keeps its commitment to them for putting their lives on the line to protect our freedom.""   The survey is relatively brief and is available on Crapo's official website at https://www.crapo.senate.gov/contact/survey.cfm and through the Idaho Division of Veterans Services.  Veterans can also call one of the Senator's offices to have a staff member administer the survey.  The following phone numbers can be used to reach Crapo's offices:  Washington, DC (202) 224-6142; Idaho State Office (Boise) 208-334-1776; South-Central Idaho (Twin Falls) (208) 734-2515; North Idaho (Coeur d' Alene) (208) 664-5490; Eastern Idaho, North (Idaho Falls) (208) 522-9779; North-Central Idaho (Lewiston) (208) 743-1492; Eastern Idaho, South (Pocatello) (208) 236-6775.  Additionally, veterans are welcome to visit any of the Senator's regional offices to take the survey in person.  Friends and families of veterans are also welcome to take the survey to share their experiences.     The survey contains questions about the level of satisfaction veterans have with the VA generally.  It also asks where veterans receive health care treatment if they use VA facilities.  The survey provides the option of sharing individual positive and negative experiences.  Idahoans in need of specific assistance in dealing with the VA or other federal agencies and navigating programs may also contact any one of Crapo's offices for further assistance through the survey or separately.         Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355221,Crapo to Present WW II Veteran With Spirit of Freedom Award; Keynote Economic Development Conference,2014-08-21,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"August 21, 2014 Crapo to Present WW II Veteran With Spirit of Freedom Award; Keynote Economic Development Conference  Idaho Falls  -  A veteran of World War II, Quentin Murdock, will receive the Spirit of Freedom Award during a ceremony at the Idaho Veterans Home in Pocatello next  Wednesday.  Idaho Senator Mike Crapo will present the award while donating a U.S. flag that has been flown over the U.S. Capitol at the veterans' recognition event.   In Twin Falls, Crapo will note the individual contributions to veterans care by presenting his Spirit of Idaho Award to volunteers with Hospice Visions during a recognition and flag ceremony at the Twin Falls Care Center.    Crapo will also focus on economic development during stops in eastern Idaho.  He will keynote the Bannock Development Corporation's Economic Symposium next Thursday and he will tour Blackfoot's Latino Economic and Development (LEAD) Center.    Highlights of Crapo's schedule for August 27 and 28 include:   Wednesday, August 27:   1:30 PM         Twin Falls     Presents Spirit of Idaho Award during a Veterans Recognition Ceremony hosted by Hospice Visions, Twin Falls Care Center, 674 Eastland Drive.   Thursday, August 28:   9:30 AM         Pocatello      Presents the Spirit of Freedom Award to WWII Veteran Quentin  Murdock, Idaho State Veterans Home, 1957 Alvin Ricken Drive.   11:00 AM       Pocatello      Addresses participants at the Bannock Development Corporation Economic Development Symposium, Idaho State University Performing Arts Center, 1002 Sam Nixon Drive.   2:30 PM         Blackfoot      Tours the Latino Economic and Development (LEAD) Center, 625 West Pacific Street, Suite 2. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355210,"Crapo Staff Plan Office Hours In Nez Perce, Craigmont and Winchester August 20th",2014-08-15,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"August 15, 2014 Crapo Staff Plan Office Hours In Nez Perce, Craigmont and Winchester August 20th Lewiston - To better assist Idahoans with questions and issues concerning federal agencies and policies, staff members representing  Idaho Senator Mike Crapo will hold office hours in Nezperce, Craigmont and Winchester August 20th.  Staff members from Crapo's Lewiston office will be available to assist Idahoans with any questions or problems related to federal agencies or with problems regarding federal programs. Crapo Remote Office Hours schedule: Wednesday, August 20: Nezperce   Community Center,  604 Fourth Avenue  10:45 AM-11:30 AM Craigmont  Craigmont Fire Station, 116 North Division Street, 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM Winchester  City Hall, 501 Nezperce Street, 2:30 PM - 3:15 PM Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355211,Affordable Wood Stove Heat May Be In Jeopardy,2014-08-15,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"August 15, 2014 Affordable Wood Stove Heat May Be In Jeopardy Kuma Stoves, Crapo to discuss new federal regulations Rathdrum - Many Idahoans and Northwest residents heat their homes with wood and wood stoves, but that affordable heating source may soon become complicated because of newly proposed federal regulations.  Idaho Senator Mike Crapo will meet with the owner of Idaho-based Kuma Stoves Monday, August 18, 2014, to discuss the new regulations and their effect on consumers. Kuma Stoves is an Idaho family-owned manufacturer of wood stoves using all-American parts, including doors produced at a foundry in nearby Spokane.  The company, founded in 1981, continues to create and provide jobs at the Rathdrum location and with its manufacturing and retail partners throughout the region. Wood stove manufacturers are under pressure yet again to lower federal emission standards, this time to a level that may not be attainable financially or technologically for consumers or the wood stove industry.  Kuma Stoves President Mark Freeman notes that, before the hearth industry worked to develop new technologies, older stoves in the mid-1980s would emit an average of 60 grams per hour of particulates.  In 1988 the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stepped in and worked with the hearth industry to lower emissions to 7.5 grams per hour for all new stoves.  The newly proposed EPA regulations would lower that again to 4.5 grams per hour by the end of next year, and possibly to 1.3 grams per hour by 2020.  In addition, the EPA proposes to radically change the fuel and the test methods for the 2020 targets. ""We are making stoves that are efficient and affordable but these new regulations may change that,"" said Freeman.  ""The ironic part is that these changes will raise prices and cause consumers to not upgrade their old units, meaning the air will get dirtier instead of cleaner.  We just want some fairness in this process and for the EPA to hear the industry's concerns, especially that of small businesses like ours, regarding both the benefits and costs of the new emission targets"".  Crapo is a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, with jurisdiction over the EPA. ""Monday's meeting is a call to action for consumers and industry alike to let the EPA know that public health and jobs are at issue with how far we go with these new regulations.  Worse yet, the EPA has unfortunately fallen into a pattern that uses non-public data and undisclosed models with the science the agency uses to craft regulations.  We need the light of day on this issue and others and we are asking Idahoans to weigh in.""  Crapo has joined committee colleagues and Idaho Senator Jim Risch to introduce S. 2613, the Secret Science Reform Act, which would prohibit the EPA from proposing or finalizing regulations based on science that is not made publicly available to the American people and that is not reproducible.  A similar measure has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. News Conference and Tour of Kuma Stoves: Monday, August 18 1:00 PM Kuma Stoves Manufacturing Facility 50145 Old Highway 95 (just north of Coeur d'Alene off U.S. 95) Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=920,Silver Star Presented to Idaho Soldier,2014-08-13,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   FOR MORE INFORMATION: Friday | August 13, 2014 Dan Popkey: 208-800-1565 208-888-3188     SILVER STAR PRESENTED TO IDAHO SOLDIER   Congressman Labrador joins veterans in honoring Atwell’sgallantry during 1967 fight in Vietnam POST FALLS – Congressman Raúl Labrador, R-Idaho, presented the Silver Star --  the military’s third-highest decoration for valor -- to Sgt. Michael Atwell at a ceremony Wednesday at the American Legion Hall in Post Falls. Labrador’s office assisted Atwell, 65, of Osburn, in obtaining the award. Two of Atwell’s colleagues, Col. Ron Leonard and Maj. Larry Moore, came to Labrador for help last year. “It is at last time to recognize this soldier’s extraordinary courage and valor,” said Leonard, who traveled to the ceremony from Fairfax Station, Va. “This day has been long coming,” said Moore, of Knoxville, Tenn. “Mike Atwell is a brave soldier.” Moore and Leonard described Atwell as quiet and effective. Accepting the award, Atwell was brief: “I’m not going to say a lot. We had a lot of good people. This Silver Star is for all of them – couldn’t have done it without them.” Labrador notedthat he was born two weeks afterthe battle for which Atwell was honored. “Because of men like you and all of you who are here, I was born into a free nation,” Labrador said. Leonard and Moore began collecting records about the Battle of Dak To in  2011, submitting an application for the award to the Army in 2012. Early in 2013, they brought the matter to Labrador, whose veterans’ affairs specialist Tori Shockey took the case. Shockey helped revise the application and on June 26, 2014, Secretary of the Army John McHugh approved the award. “God bless her,” Leonard said of Shockey. During the Nov. 20 to Nov. 23, 1967, battle Atwell was 18 years old. Operating from an exposed forward position, he delivered “continuous devastating fire on the enemy,” according to the Army citation. “Atwell endured wave after wave of enemy counterattacks” for three days, “which ultimately allowed friendly forces to secure Hill 875.” “Private First Class Atwell’s gallantry in action is in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 503d Airborne Infantry Brigade and the United States Army,” says the citation. Atwell’s Company B was outnumberedby a ratio of 7-to-1. After a 6-year Army Career, Atwell worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. His postings included Mountain Home Air Force Base and the Eastern Environmental Office in Kellogg. He was twice deployed to Iraq and twice to Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina. Atwell retired from the Corps in 2011.                                                                                                             ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355195,"Crapo to Note Water Collaboration in Lewiston, Celebrate Solar Progress in Sandpoint",2014-08-13,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"August 13, 2014 Crapo to Note Water Collaboration in Lewiston, Celebrate Solar Progress in Sandpoint Will also address Orofino Chamber during visits in north Idaho Lewiston  - A collaborative effort to conserve water, assist species and encourage consensus between government agencies will be celebrated Friday as leaders join in Lewiston to mark the Lower Clearwater Exchange Project Agreement (LCEP).  The historic agreement between water users, the Nez Perce Tribe; city, county and state leaders, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and members of Idaho's Congressional Delegation averts legal action and settles water allotment questions in the Lewiston Orchards area. Crapo will be in Sandpoint Saturday morning to meet with Mayor Carrie Logan and Scott and Julie Brusaw, the owners of Solar Roadways, to discuss advances in solar technology that are putting the city and company in the national spotlight.  Solar Roadways is designing unique solar panels that can double in serving both transportation needs and for generating energy and the city has historic plans to utilize the technology that Crapo hopes can catch on nationwide.  In addition, Crapo will join the mayor for an important announcement about changes to the Amtrak Depot in Sandpoint. The senator will also address the Orofino Chamber of Commerce in a special meeting today in Orofino.  Highlights of Crapo's schedule August 14-16 include: TODAY, Thursday, August 14: 11:15 AM       Orofino          Discusses issues with Clearwater County Commissioners,                                                 Commission Office, 150 Michigan Avenue   Noon              Orofino          Speaks to members of the Orofino Chamber of Commerce,                                                  Ponderosa Restaurant, 220 Michigan Avenue.   Friday, August 15:   10:00 AM       Lewiston       Speaks at groundbreaking ceremonies for the Lewiston Orchards                                                 Water Exchange Project, a collaborative effort led by the Lewiston                                                 Orchard Irrigation District, the Nez Perce Tribe and the U.S. Bureau                                                 of Reclamation, Fish & Game Regional Office, 3316 16 th Street.   Saturday, August 16:   10:30 AM       Sandpoint    Joins Sandpoint Mayor Carrie Logan and representatives of Solar Roadways for                                                 a news conference to mark progress of solar panels and a remodel of Sandpoint's                                                  historic Amtrak Depot,  at the Depot, 450 Railroad Avenue. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355166,Vietnam Veteran Waits 45 Years; To Receive Purple Heart Monday,2014-08-07,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"August 08, 2014 Vietnam Veteran Waits 45 Years; To Receive Purple Heart Monday Ronald Wilke was wounded in 1969; Crapo to present honors Boise  - A Boise Vietnam veteran has waited 45 years for the rightful honors he will receive on Monday when Idaho Senator Mike Crapo presents him with the Purple Heart for bravery in service and six other military awards.  Ronald Wilke is an Army veteran who was wounded during an ambush attack shortly after he was stationed  in Vietnam in 1969.  He was hospitalized for more than a month while recovering from his injuries. Joining Wilke during Monday's event at the Idaho State Veterans Home is fellow veteran Russell Waugh.  Waugh will speak about veterans services and the benefits of working with Congressional staff, veterans support staff and the Veterans Administration to achieve a successful outcome when there is a disagreement over assigned benefits.  Crapo has launched a statewide initiative to survey veterans on their care in Idaho.  He supported recent legislation to improve VA care and allow veterans in rural areas to seek private medical care if they cannot easily access a VA medical facility. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355161,Crapo Seeks Help of Idaho's Veterans,2014-08-05,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"August 05, 2014 Crapo Seeks Help of Idaho's Veterans Invites Idahoans to share feedback through short survey Washington, D.C.-In an effort to better address the needs of veterans and improve veterans services in Idaho, U.S. Senator Mike Crapo is seeking feedback from the men and women of our Armed Forces.  Crapo is asking Idaho veterans to take part in a brief survey to share their experiences within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).  ""The recent exposure of the shameful mistreatment of veterans seeking assistance through the VA again underscores the need to improve the delivery of assistance to our nation's veterans,"" said Crapo.  ""The scandals prove that the stakes are high: Congress must get VA reform right this time.  Nonetheless, in Congress' rush to make improvements, we must be careful not to harm programs that work well.  I invite all Idaho's veterans, their communities, friends and family to share feedback, both positive and negative, about their VA experiences.  The input of Idahoans is critical as I work to represent Idaho's veterans and advocate needed changes."" Veterans can take the survey online through Crapo's website at https://www.crapo.senate.gov/contact/survey.cfm.  Veterans who do not have internet access or are uncomfortable with computer use can call one of the Senator's offices to have a staff member administer the survey.  The following phone numbers can be used to reach Crapo's offices:  Washington, DC (202) 224-6142; Idaho State Office (Boise) 208-334-1776; South-Central Idaho (Twin Falls) (208) 734-2515; North Idaho (Coeur d' Alene) (208) 664-5490; Eastern Idaho, North (Idaho Falls) (208) 522-9779; North-Central Idaho (Lewiston) (208) 743-1492; Eastern Idaho, South (Pocatello) (208) 236-6775.  Additionally, veterans are welcome to visit any of the Senator's regional offices to take the survey in person.  Friends and families of veterans are also welcome to take the survey to share their experiences.   The short survey contains questions about the level of satisfaction veterans have with the VA generally.  It also asks where veterans receive health care treatment if they use VA facilities.  The survey provides the option of sharing individual positive and negative experiences.  Idahoans in need of specific assistance in dealing with the VA or other federal agencies and navigating programs may also contact any one of Crapo's offices for further assistance through the survey or separately. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355162,Veterans Issues Dominate Crapo August Agenda,2014-08-05,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"August 05, 2014 Veterans Issues Dominate Crapo August Agenda   Energy projects, entrepreneurs also topics for news conferences Boise - Veterans issues are a focus of Idaho Senator Mike Crapo's travel across Idaho during the August state work period break from Senate floor activities.  Having launched a statewide survey effort to gather the opinions of veterans and their families, Crapo will meet directly with many veterans to discuss developments in veterans' services as well as honor those who have served with a Purple Heart presentation and Spirit of Freedom ceremonies this month.  He will join Governor Otter in Boise to rename Idaho's Interstate 84 to honor Vietnam Veterans and participate in a veterans recognition ceremony in the Magic Valley. In north Idaho, Crapo will note the entrepreneurial expertise of Idaho manufacturers of unique solar panel modules and an Idaho family-owned wood stove manufacturer facing problems with federal regulations.  Crapo assisted irrigators and local cooperative members in eastern Idaho to create a new hydroelectric source at the Chester Dam.  He and the group will tour the facility August 26.  Crapo will also join his partners in the Idaho Congressional Delegation to meet with U.S. Energy Secretary Earnest Moniz at Mayor Rebecca Casper's Intermountain Energy Summit in Idaho Falls.  Highlights of Crapo's August in Idaho include the following events: Monday, August 11: 10:30 AM    Boise  Speaks at the Congressional Awards Ceremony, Idaho Statehouse, Lower Level, West Wing   1:45 PM      Boise     Presents the Purple Heart in a ceremony at the Idaho State Veterans Home, 320 North Collins Road.   8:00 PM    Boise    Addresses attendees at the Financial Industry Authority (FINRA) Investor Forum, Boise Centre on the Grove, 850  W. Front Street. Tuesday, August 12: 9:00 AM    Boise    Speaks at a ceremony designating Interstate 84 as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Interstate, Idaho Statehouse.   4:15 PM    Boise    Tours the newly-completed TRACON air traffic control facilities, Boise Airport south side, 3001 W. Harvard Street. 5:00 PM    Boise    Attends reception for new Shoshone-Paiute Tribal Chair Lindsey Manning, Idaho Statehouse. Wednesday, August 13: 11:00 AM   McCall    Discusses issues with Valley County Commissioners, Payette National Forest Supervisor's Office, 500 Mission Street. 4:00 PM   Lewiston  Tours Schweitzer Engineering Laboratory's recent facility expansion, Schweitzer Engineering, 2821 Juniper  Drive Thursday, August 14: 11:15 AM   O rofino    Discusses issues with Clearwater County Commissioners, Commission Office, 150 Michigan Avenue 12:00 PM   Orofino    Speaks to members of the Orofino Chamber of Commerce, Ponderosa Restaurant, 220 Michigan Avenue. Friday, August 15: 10:00 AM   Lewiston   Speaks at groundbreaking ceremonies for the Lewiston Orchards Water Exchange Project, a collaborative effort led by the  Lewiston Orchard Irrigation District, the Nez Perce Tribe and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Fish & Game Regional Office, 3316 16 th Street.   Saturday, August 16: 10:30 AM    Sandpoint   Joins Sandpoint Mayor Carrie Logan and representatives of Solar Roadways for a news conference to mark progress of solar panels and a remodel of Sandpoint's historic Amtrak Depot, At the Depot, 450 Railroad Avenue. Monday, August 18: 8:30 AM  Coeur d' Alene   Addresses attendees at the National Conference of State Housing Boards' Educational and Development Workshop,                                                 Coeur d'Alene Resort, 115 South Second Street.   1:00 PM    Rathdrum   Joins ownership of Kuma Stoves for a news conference on federal regulations proposals that could damage wood stove manufacturers.  At Kuma Stoves, 50145 Old Highway 95.   Tuesday, August 19: 8:30 AM    Boise        Joins Steve Forbes to address the Zions Bank Small Business Forum, Riverside Hotel, 2400 W. Chinden Boulevard   Wednesday, August 20:   8:00 AM   Idaho Falls   Addresses Mayor Rebecca Casper's Intermountain Energy Summit breakfast with fellow members of the Idaho Congressional Delegation  and  U.S. Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz, Shilo Inn, 780 Lindsay Boulevard.   Thursday, August 21:       8:45 AM    Sun Valley    Joins former HUD Secretary Mel Martinez to speak to attendees of the Bipartisan Policy Center's Idaho Housing Field Hearing, Dollar Mountain Lodge, 1 Sun Valley Road.  Tuesday, August 26:   9:45 AM     St. Anthony    Tours facilities and participates in news conference regarding the Chester Dam Hydroelectric Project opening.  Partners are the Fremont-Madison Irrigation District and Fall River Cooperative.  Northeast of St. Anthony on the Henry's Fork.   11:30 AM   St. Anthony    Meets with Fremont County Commissioners, Fremont County Courthouse, 151 West First North.   2:00 PM      Idaho Falls     Meets with McAfee Cybersecurity officials and tours facility, 2325 W. Broadway Street.   Wednesday, August 27:   9:45 AM    Twin Falls     Meets with local veterans groups, including the Magic Valley Veterans  Advocacy Group, and local veterans.   At Crapo's South Central- Twin Falls Offices, 202 Falls Avenue.   1:30 PM    Twin Falls     Participates  in a Veterans Recognition Ceremony hosted by Hospice Visions, Twin Falls Care Center, 674 Eastland Drive.   Thursday, August 28:   9:30 AM    Pocatello     Presents the Spirit of Freedom Award to WWII Veteran Quinton Murdock, Idaho State Veterans Home,  1957 Alvin Ricken Drive.   11:00 AM  Pocatello    Addresses participants at the Economic Development Symposium, Idaho State University Performing Arts Center, 1002     Sam   Nixon Drive.   2:30 PM    Blackfoot    Tours the Latino Economic and Development (LEAD) Center, 625 West Pacific Street, Suite 2.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140808013311/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=61268b8e-e9d5-4dcd-86b1-50d44c42faa9,"Crapo, Risch a 'No' on the President's Border Spending Bill",2014-08-04,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C.—Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch objected to the President’s $3.6 billion request for new spending, saying the measure did nothing to put in place reforms to adequately address the burgeoning crisis along our nation’s southern border.  The Senate defeated the emergency supplemental request yesterday evening by a 50-44 vote. “The Administration has repeatedly disregarded U.S. immigration laws in pursuit of its own immigration agenda,” said Crapo.  “The crisis we are seeing along our nation’s southern border is a direct consequence of the President’s end-run around Congress to enact immigration reform, in particular the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).  The supplemental request before the Senate lacked the proper assurances that the additional resources would be used to enforce the law and strengthen our border.  In addition, the Senate Majority Leader blocked all amendments, including those to put in place real reforms that would ensure our immigration laws do not incentivize continued illegal immigration.”  “The U.S. is experiencing a tragedy along its border which did not need to happen,” said Risch. “President Obama can fix this, but his proposal for $3.6 billion was a bad deal. It throws good money after bad, and it ignores the policy changes that are required to solve this humanitarian crisis.” The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals was an executive action issued in 2012. Implemented by the Department of Homeland Security, DACA prevents the agency from initiating deportation proceedings on illegal immigrants who came to the U.S. before they were 16 years old and have lived in the U.S. for five years since their arrival.  This policy, among others, has encouraged an influx of unaccompanied children attempting to cross the border.  This year alone, nearly 60,000 unaccompanied minors have entered the U.S. illegally, and that number is expected to dramatically increase. Crapo and Risch previously called on the President to take direct action in dispelling misinformation regarding U.S. immigration policies and firmly enforce the law along our nation’s border.  Read the letter here. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355147,Crapo Supports Final Veterans Care Bill,2014-08-01,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"August 01, 2014 Crapo Supports Final Veterans Care Bill Says legislation beneficial to rural Idahoans Washington, D.C.-Idaho Senator Mike Crapo supported compromise legislation to end lengthy wait times for veterans seeking medical care and increase accountability within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).  By an overwhelming bipartisan majority, the United States Senate voted 91-3 to adopt the Senate-House conference report on the Veteran's Access to Care through Choice, Accountability and Transparency Act of 2014. Notably to Idaho, the legislation, which Crapo co-sponsored, is particularly beneficial to those living in rural communities.  It would allow veterans who reside more than 40 miles away from a VA facility to seek health services outside of the system. ""Given the sacrifices our military men and women make, Congress must provide the necessary resources to our service personnel and their families,"" said Crapo.  ""Although we are in a time of fiscal crisis with our national debt exceeding $17 trillion, we must do all that we can to identify the most holistic and responsible ways to provide the resources and benefits our military community needs and deserves. ""This legislation, though more work remains, takes a positive step in addressing the deep-seated problems plaguing the VA."" The Veteran's Access to Care through Choice, Accountability and Transparency Act of 2014 makes the following improvements within the VA: ·         Allows veterans to seek private treatment if faced with long wait times at VA facilities; ·         Expands the VA secretary's ability to terminate or demote employees for poor performance; ·         Allows for the hiring of additional doctors and nurses; ·         Establishes two independent commissions to review and monitor veterans' access to care and VA construction projects; ·         Extends counseling and treatment to service members who suffered sexual trauma while serving on inactive duty training; ·         Requires VA to report on prevalence of domestic violence in the veteran population. The bill now heads to the President's desk where it awaits signature before becoming law. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355150,"CRAPO, RISCH A NO ON THE PRESIDENTS BORDER SPENDING BILL",2014-08-01,2014,2014-08,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"August 01, 2014 CRAPO, RISCH A â??NOâ?? ON THE PRESIDENTâ??S BORDER SPENDING BILL Senators say measure will not curb further illegal immigration Washington, D.C.-Idaho Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch objected to the President's $3.6 billion request for new spending, saying the measure did nothing to put in place reforms to adequately address the burgeoning crisis along our nation's southern border.  The Senate defeated the emergency supplemental request yesterday evening by a 50-44 vote. ""The Administration has repeatedly disregarded U.S. immigration laws in pursuit of its own immigration agenda,"" said Crapo.  ""The crisis we are seeing along our nation's southern border is a direct consequence of the President's end-run around Congress to enact immigration reform, in particular the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).  The supplemental request before the Senate lacked the proper assurances that the additional resources would be used to enforce the law and strengthen our border.  In addition, the Senate Majority Leader blocked all amendments, including those to put in place real reforms that would ensure our immigration laws do not incentivize continued illegal immigration."" ""The U.S. is experiencing a tragedy along its border which did not need to happen,"" said Risch. ""President Obama can fix this, but his proposal for $3.6 billion was a bad deal. It throws good money after bad, and it ignores the policy changes that are required to solve this humanitarian crisis."" The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals was an executive action issued in 2012. Implemented by the Department of Homeland Security, DACA prevents the agency from initiating deportation proceedings on illegal immigrants who came to the U.S. before they were 16 years old and have lived in the U.S. for five years since their arrival.  This policy, among others, has encouraged an influx of unaccompanied children attempting to cross the border.  This year alone, nearly 60,000 unaccompanied minors have entered the U.S. illegally, and that number is expected to dramatically increase. Crapo and Risch previously called on the President to take direct action in dispelling misinformation regarding U.S. immigration policies and firmly enforce the law along our nation's border.  Read the letter here.  Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=390011,Simpson Hails Passage of Reducing Regulatory Burdens Act,2014-07-31,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today hailed passage of legislation to clarify federal regulation of pesticides by the House of Representatives.  H.R. 935, the Reducing Regulatory Burdens Act, would remove duplicative requirements that have added layers of paperwork on top of day-to-day operations for small businesses, farmers, and local governments by clarifying that pesticides which are already regulated under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) are not also regulated under the Clean Water Act.  The bill, of which Simpson is a cosponsor, reinstates EPA’s long-standing position on the issue, which was overturned as the result of a lawsuit in 2009.  “This ruling didn’t make applying pesticides any safer; all it did was create duplicative and unnecessary new regulations that cost money and increase the risk of litigation for local governments, irrigation districts, and farmers and ranchers,” said Simpson.  “Passing this legislation is common sense, and I’m hopeful that the Senate will act quickly on the bill so that we can address this issue once and for all.” Simpson has been a cosponsor of similar legislation since 2011.  H.R. 935 is bipartisan and widely supported in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.  After passing the House by a vote of 267-161 today, it is now under consideration by the U.S. Senate.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=390087,Simpson Works to Stop EPA Water Grab,2014-07-31,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson has cosponsored two new bills to address widespread concerns with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new proposed rule expanding its jurisdiction over water throughout the U.S.  H.R. 5071, the Agriculture Conservation Flexibility Act, would address some of the most controversial provisions in the proposed rule, withdrawing the Interpretive Rule proposed in March that has resulted in great uncertainty and concern across the agriculture sector.  H.R. 5078, the Waters of the United States Regulatory Overreach Protection Act, would support the existing partnership between states and the federal government by preventing EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers from redefining “waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act.  “These two bills respond to some of the most troubling aspects of the EPA’s efforts to expand its jurisdiction,” said Simpson.  “The EPA initially claimed that its new rule would provide clarity and flexibility for American agriculture, but my initial concerns that this would not be the case have proven true.  Farmers across Idaho have expressed to me their serious concern about how the EPA may decide to interpret this rule in the future, leading to even less certainty than they have now. “Moreover,” he added, “These bills recognize that the EPA’s proposed rule undoes many existing and successful partnerships for cleaning up and maintaining our waterways, whether those are partnerships between farmers, ranchers, and conservationists or local, state, and federal governments.  I think it’s an arrogant assumption on the part of the EPA to say that they alone should have such authority over every drop of water across the country.” H.R. 5071 and H.R. 5078 are currently under committee consideration in the House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=1802bdcb-0da2-4eaa-9473-99bc1bb51e69,"Mikulski, Risch, Cardin Announce Committee Passage of Bipartisan Resolution Marking 70th Anniversary of Warsaw Uprising",2014-07-30,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,www.risch.senate.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md.) and Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Co-Chairs of the Senate Caucus on Poland, along with Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today announced bipartisan passage by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee of a resolution they introduced honoring the 70th Anniversary of the Warsaw Uprising, which is on August 1.   “I am pleased the Senate has acted in a bipartisan way to recognize and commemorate the 70th anniversary of the heroic Warsaw Uprising,” Senator Mikulski said. “My Polish heritage has given me an identity and a set of beliefs that make me the Senator I am with a belief in freedom, a belief in people, and a belief that we must always speak truth to power. When the Polish people rose against the Nazi’s in 1944, they took a great risk to try and take back their capital and end the occupation. Their resistance will forever serve as a symbol of heroism in the face of great adversity, and of the power of the human spirit.""   “I am proud to honor the 70th anniversary of Poland’s fight against tyranny,” said Senator Risch.  “Despite incredible risks to their lives and property, the people of Warsaw made heroic efforts to rebel against their captors and assist the Allied war effort.  These actions helped establish a bond that has made Poland one of the closest U.S. allies in the world.  They deserve our respect and we owe them our support.”   “We look back with pride as the Polish people stood their ground against a mighty enemy despite the odds. I am proud to join Senator Mikulski and Senator Risch to honor this important moment in history,” said Senator Cardin. “The Warsaw Uprising is a reminder to us all that tyranny cannot go unchallenged.”     On August 1, 1944, the Polish Home Army rose against the Nazi occupation of Warsaw though they were outnumbered and equipped with makeshift weapons. The resistance fought against German occupation for 63 days with little support from outside and was quelled by German forces by October 2, 1944. In response to the uprising, Nazi Leader Adolf Hitler ordered the destruction of Warsaw as punishment, which resulted in 85 percent of the city of Warsaw being demolished by the end of the war, including many historical buildings and monuments. Over 250,000 Poles were killed, wounded or missing.   The full text of the Senate Committee-passed Resolution follows:   A resolution honoring the 70th Anniversary of the Warsaw Uprising.    Whereas August 1, 2014, marks the 70th anniversary of the Warsaw Uprising, a         heroic event during World War II during which citizens of Poland,         against all odds, fought against the Nazi occupation of Warsaw;   Whereas, on August 1, 1944, the Polish Home Army, with limited supplies and         armed with mostly homemade weapons, rose up against the Nazis to fight         the nationwide occupation of Poland by Nazi Germany;   Whereas the Polish resistance fought German forces for 63 days, suffering         extreme hardship, retribution, and personal sacrifice, and during which         approximately 250,000 Poles were killed, wounded, or went missing;   Whereas Adolf Hitler ordered the destruction of Warsaw as punishment for the         uprising, leaving 85 percent of the city of Warsaw in ruins, including         many historical buildings and monuments;   Whereas the actions of the Polish resistance inspire people throughout the world         who fight for freedom and democracy; and   Whereas the actions of the Polish people during the Warsaw Uprising were a         significant contribution to Allied war efforts during World War II and         those actions continue to be respected and remembered throughout Poland:         Now, therefore, be it     Resolved, That the Senate recognizes the 70th anniversary of the Warsaw Uprising, which occurred during World War II and serves as a symbol of heroism and the power of the human spirit.   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140801023223/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=61f76292-2932-4d00-9b6c-95e90fc68bdb,Risch on Obama Administration Losing INF Treaty,2014-07-30,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jim Risch made the following statement after learning that the Obama Administration has finally acknowledged that Russia has violated the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty: “It may not have the same visual and emotional impact as Russian troops entering Ukraine, or the shooting down of a civilian airliner, but when one imagines all of the actions Putin could take to destabilize Europe, violating the INF Treaty is right up there” said Risch.  “My colleagues and I have been pressing the Obama administration on this issue for years. It is senseless that it took so long for us to not only call these Russian actions a violation, but also that it took so long for us to brief our NATO allies, and confront the Russians in the first place.  Saving INF just hasn’t been a priority for President Obama, Secretary Clinton, and Secretary Kerry.”  The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty has been the bedrock of security and stability in Europe since 1987. When Presidents Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev signed this treaty banning the possession, production or flight testing of ground-launched missiles with ranges of 300 to 3,400 miles, the threat of a nuclear exchange with Russia was significantly reduced.     Risch has sponsored several items calling for accountability under the INF, including S.1924, a bill to require a report on INF Treaty compliance information sharing, and SCR 34, a Concurrent Resolution expressing the sense of Congress that President Obama should hold the Russian Federation accountable for being in material breach of its obligations under the INF Treaty.  In January of 2013, Risch questioned Secretary of State John Kerry about Russian accountability and treaty compliance at Kerry’s confirmation hearing. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140801023417/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=7a7d234a-704e-4bf2-86f4-a47d570c299a,rosieMADE in Meridian Named Small Business of the Month,2014-07-30,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. - In recognition of their tremendous efforts and years of success, U.S. Senator Jim Risch has named rosieMADE as the Idaho Small Business of the Month.  The company will be recognized in the Congressional Record of the United States Senate. “I am pleased to recognize rosieMADE as an outstanding small business.  This is a new company that has grown and adapted for the past two years,” said Risch. “rosieMADE has achieved success as an online marketplace, supplying quality gifts and products made in the USA by women-owned businesses.  I congratulate everyone at rosieMADE on their success and wish them the very best in the future.” Launched in 2012 by retail and corporate merchandising expert Alicia Vanderschuere, rosieMADE offers exceptional options for gifts and products while supporting women-owned businesses.  Committed to supplying only products “Made in the USA” and encouraging women’s entrepreneurship, rosieMADE is symbolic of the small business spirit that drives Idaho’s economy. Senator Risch is the highest ranking Republican on the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.  The committee oversees proposed legislation on matters relating to entrepreneurship and provides oversight of the Small Business Administration.  They also research, investigate and report all problems relating to American’s small businesses to the full Senate. ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355133,"Crapo, Risch Staff Plan Office Hours in Wallace and Kellogg August 20th",2014-07-30,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"July 30, 2014 Crapo, Risch Staff Plan Office Hours in Wallace and Kellogg August 20th   Coeur d'Alene - To better assist Idahoans with questions and issues concerning federal agencies and policies, staff members representing  Idaho Senator Mike Crapo and Idaho Senator Jim Risch will hold office hours in Wallace and Kellogg next month.    Staff members from the Coeur d'Alene offices of Crapo and Risch will be available to assist Idahoans with any questions or problems related to federal agencies or with problems regarding federal programs.   Crapo & Risch Remote Office Hours schedule: Wednesday, August 20: Wallace City Hall    703 Cedar Street, 10:00 AM - Noon Kellogg City Hall     1007 McKinley Avenue,  1:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=919,New Spokesman Joins Labrador Staff,2014-07-29,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   FOR MORE INFORMATION: Tuesday | July 29, 2014 Mike Cunnington - 202.225.6611 Doug Taylor - 208.888.3188     NEW SPOKESMAN JOINS LABRADOR STAFF   MERIDIAN – Congressman Raúl Labrador, R-Idaho, is pleased to announce that longtime Idaho Statesman political reporter Dan Popkey will become his new press secretary.  Dan will be based in the Congressman’s Meridian office and will coordinate communications in Idaho and Washington, D.C. “I’m very excited to have Dan on board as my new press secretary,” said Congressman Labrador. “He brings a wealth of experience and considerable knowledge of Idaho political history that will be a tremendous asset to me and my staff throughout the First Congressional District.  I’ve learned that one has to have an exceptional communications strategy to effectively represent Idaho in Congress. I know that Dan will help me better communicate my message to constituents and the media.” Popkey began reporting on the congressional delegation and state government in 1987, and has covered 26 sessions of the Legislature. Popkey started covering Congressman Labrador after his election to the Idaho House in 2006 and has continued to follow him since he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2010. “I’ve come to deeply respect Congressman Labrador’s independence, integrity and fierce commitment to setting our nation’s fiscal house in order,” Popkey said. “It’s bittersweet to leave journalism, my first love, but I’m thrilled with the opportunity to apply what I’ve learned to help advance our state’s priorities in Washington.” Popkey, 55, worked for three years as a reporter in California. In 1984, he joined the Statesman. “I’ve been privileged to work with people of great talent, character and devotion and I wish them the best,” he said. He has a bachelor’s in political science from Santa Clara University (1980) and masters in journalism from Columbia University (1981). He was an American Political Science Association congressional fellow (1988-89) and University of Michigan journalism fellow (1997-98). Born in Tucson, Ariz., Popkey attended public schools in Cupertino, Calif. His senior year of high school, 1975-76, he was a page in the U.S. House.   ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140801023430/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=b3ffc140-036b-467e-9872-1a26caa8f9e8,"Statement by Senators McCain, Cardin, Shaheen and Risch Expressing Disappointment About Charges Against Former Georgian President Saakashvili",2014-07-29,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. ­– U.S. Senators John McCain (R-AZ), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Jim Risch (R-ID) today released the following statement expressing disappointment regarding the Chief Prosecutor of Georgia filing criminal charges against former President Mikheil Saakashvili and numerous senior leaders of the previous government: “We are extremely disappointed and concerned that the Chief Prosecutor of Georgia has filed criminal charges against former President Mikheil Saakashvili and numerous senior leaders of the previous government. “President Saakasahvili and his government were not faultless, and it is important for any democracy to uphold its laws. But the pursuit of justice should not become a tool of political retribution and a source of national division, especially when Georgia has so many pressing challenges at present. We and other have urged Prime Minister Garibashvili and other Georgian leaders to focus on the future, not the past, and to help move their country forward, not take it backward. It is nearly impossible to see how the decision to put most of the previous government on trial is consistent with this purpose. “Georgia’s leaders need to think long and hard about the direction they are taking their country. Today’s action, and others like it, imposes unnecessary challenges in moving our relationship forward.” ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=389391,Simpsons Wilderness Water Bill Signed into Law,2014-07-25,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson expressed great satisfaction at the news that H.R. 876, the Idaho Wilderness Water Resources Protection Act, which he authored, has been signed into law.  Simpson first introduced the legislation in 2009, and today it was signed by the president. The Idaho Wilderness Water Resources Protection Act corrects a long-standing oversight in law by authorizing a number of water diversions within the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness Area and the Selway-Bitteroot Wilderness Area in Idaho which existed before the wilderness was created.  The new law will enable landowners to do the necessary maintenance and repairs on these diversions. “I’m so pleased that the Idaho Wilderness Water Resources Protection Act has finally been signed into law,” said Simpson.  “I introduced this bill five years ago when the Forest Service discovered that it didn’t have the authority to permit repairs on an historic water diversion in the Frank Church.  When we looked into the issue, we learned that a number of pre-existing diversions had been overlooked when the wilderness areas were created.  Any one of these diversions could need repairs to maintain integrity and protect the surrounded ecosystem.  With enactment of this bill, the necessary maintenance and repairs can now be done.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://labrador.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=49&itemid=917,ICYMI: PAUL RYAN & WASHINGTON POST ENDORSE LABRADOR BILL TO REFORM CRIMINAL SENTENCING LAWS,2014-07-24,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,ID,Raúl Labrador,L000573,labrador.house.gov,,,legacy,"In a speech today at the American Enterprise Institute, Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI), Chairman of the House Budget Committee, endorsed Rep. Raúl Labrador’s bill to reform criminal sentencing laws.  Rep. Labrador’s bill, H.R. 3382, the Smarter Sentencing Act, would allow courts to make individualized assessments in nonviolent drug cases, ensuring that limited resources are focused on the most serious offenders, while maintaining public safety.  In his prepared remarks, Chairman Ryan said, “We need commonsense criminal-justice reform. We need to give people the opportunity to earn a second chance. Luckily, my colleagues have done a lot of good work on this front. Senator Mike Lee and Congressmen Raul Labrador and Bobby Scott have introduced a bill to reform our sentencing guidelines. It would give judges more discretion with low-risk, non-violent offenders. All we’re saying is, they don’t have to give the maximum sentence every time. There’s no reason to lock someone up any longer than necessary.” In addition, the Washington Post published an editorial today, Congress Should Reform the Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Drug Offenses. The Post stated, “The core of the problem — overly tough mandatory minimum sentences and the difficulty in reintegrating ex-prisoners into society — can be addressed only by Congress…Luckily, two bills are pending that precisely address these issues.  The Smarter Sentencing Act would reform how prisoners are sentenced… The second bill, the Recidivism Reduction and Public Safety Act, reforms the way prisoners reintegrate into society…Sponsors of these two proposals are negotiating on whether to bundle them together. Whether that is successful or not, both bills should pass. They will help lower the crime rate in the long run, bring proportionality back into punishments and save millions of dollars a year.”  The Smarter Sentencing Act has 47 House cosponsors and the Senate version of the bill has already passed the Senate Judiciary Committee.  The bill has been endorsed by organizations across the political spectrum, including Heritage Action; Justice Fellowship of Prison Fellowship Ministries; ACLU; American Correctional Association; American Bar Association; NAACP; and Constitution Project. To learn more about the Smarter Sentencing Act, please click here.      ####",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=355071,Crapo Backs Bill to Increase Transparency at the EPA,2014-07-21,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,ID,Michael Crapo,C000880,www.crapo.senate.gov,,,legacy,"July 21, 2014 Crapo Backs Bill to Increase Transparency at the EPA Says data behind costly environmental regulations should be made available to the public Washington, D.C. - Idaho Senator Mike Crapo is calling for increased transparency in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) federal rule making process.  Crapo, the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Superfund, Toxins and Environmental Science,  joined colleagues on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee to introduce legislation to prohibit the agency from proposing or finalizing regulations based on science that is not made publicly available to the American people. ""If the American people are going to continue to foot the bill for these multimillion and multibillion dollar regulations, they have a right to see the underlying data,"" said Crapo.  ""The Administration continues to disregard the most basic tenets of science-transparency and reproducibility.  Costly and burdensome environmental regulations should only be based on data that is available to independent scientists and the public."" Currently, the EPA relies almost entirely on undisclosed data and proprietary models to justify the basis for new federal regulations and rulemakings. Crapo previously pressed for increased transparency within the agency, requesting the EPA release the underlying data behind some of the agency's most costly rules.  Read the letter here. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho), John Barrasso (R-Wyoming), David Vitter (R-Louisiana), Mike Enzi (R-Wyoming), Jim Inhofe (R-Oklahoma), Jeff Flake (R-Arizona) and Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska) joined Crapo in introducing the legislation.  Print Email Tweet Next Article",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://web.archive.org/web/20140718031305/http://www.risch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=702361f9-2c0c-4c9c-86a3-3680bfb5cf6c,Risch Presses Obama Officials on Immigrant Minors,2014-07-17,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,ID,Jim Risch,R000584,web.archive.org,,,legacy,"Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jim Risch today pressed administration officials on the fallout of President Obama’s 2012 executive order that has encouraged a flood of unaccompanied minors into the United States. The President’s executive order instructed the Department of Homeland Security to no longer initiate the deportation of illegal immigrants who came to the United States before age 16.   Risch made reference to a graph that shows the annual apprehensions of unaccompanied minors into the United States from 2009 to June 2014 and the explosion of minors since 2012. Following the hearing, Risch said “Commonsense tells us, the president would do well to immediately, publicly, and loudly rescind his executive order of 2012. That action would reverse the flood of unaccompanied illegal immigrant children to the United States, since it was that executive order that unleashed this flood.” The exchange took place at a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on “Dangerous Passage: Central America in Crisis and the Exodus of Unaccompanied Minors.” The administration witnesses addressed were Thomas Shannon, Counselor of the Department at U.S. Department of State and Bruce Swartz, Deputy Assistant Attorney General at the U.S. Department of Justice. Video of the exchange can be found via YouTube or FTP link below. YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1JorrgWLky0&feature=youtu.be FTP Link: RischImmigrationSFRC71714.mp4   ###",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z http://simpson.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=388092,House Committee Blocks Sheep Station Closure,2014-07-16,2014,2014-07,Republican,House,ID,Mike Simpson,S001148,simpson.house.gov,,,legacy,"Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson applauded the decision to stop USDA’s planned closure of the U.S. Sheep Experimental Station in Dubois, Idaho.  Simpson, who is working with other western representatives to prevent closure of the facility, recently urged the chairman of the House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee to deny a request by the Agricultural Research Service to reprogram funds from the sheep station, which would result in its closure.  Simpson was pleased to learn that the request has been denied. “Because of its location and expertise, experts at the Sheep Experimental Station Dubois are conducting research that no other facility is currently able to do, including unique research on the domestic-wildlife interface that is vital to the future of the sheep industry,” said Simpson.  “Closing down the Dubois station would effectively end this important research, and it would be a huge loss to American agriculture, which is why my western colleagues and I are fighting so hard to keep it open.”  Last week Congressman Simpson also sent a letter to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, expressing disappointment that neither the USDA nor ARS notified Congress of their intent to close the Dubois center.  In the letter, Simpson and other western Members of Congress expressed concern that neither agency has explained how research currently underway in Dubois would be continued.   “I’m pleased that we have avoided shutting down the Dubois center for now, but I recognize that this decision does not eliminate the potential threat of future closure of the U.S. Sheep Experimental Station,” Simpson said.  “I will continue to work with the USDA, University of Idaho, and members of the sheep industry to ensure the long-term viability of the sheep center at Dubois.  It is critical that the sheep industry have a voice in future USDA decisions affecting their economic vitality.”",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z